France will provide Ukraine with a replacement radar for its SAMP/T air defense missile system while an existing unit undergoes repairs, reinforcing Kyiv’s air defense capabilities amid sustained aerial threats.
French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, Catherine Vautrin, stated that the temporary radar deployment is part of broader efforts to maintain the operational readiness of Ukraine’s SAMP/T systems, as reported by Ukrinform. She noted that radar availability is constrained by manufacturing capacity, prompting France to coordinate closely with MBDA to repair the damaged unit while supplying a substitute system in the interim.
To support growing operational demand, MBDA reportedly doubled its missile production between 2024 and 2025 to sustain the SAMP/T and other defense systems. French President Emmanuel Macron has also signaled the potential deployment of additional SAMP/T systems to Ukraine from 2026 onward, underscoring France’s long-term commitment to Ukraine’s air defense posture.
Developed by the Eurosam consortium led by MBDA and Thales, the SAMP/T is a long-range air defense system integrating multifunction radars and Aster-family missiles, particularly the Aster 30. It is designed to counter aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles, while simultaneously tracking and engaging multiple targets with high precision.
France and Italy remain the primary operators of the system, with both countries ordering next-generation variants featuring extended range and improved engagement capabilities. Deliveries to the French Air and Space Force and the Italian Army are expected in early 2026, followed by operational evaluations.
In support of NATO’s rotational air defense framework, Italy deployed SAMP/T units to Lithuania in 2025 and has confirmed plans for similar deployments in Estonia. Ukraine received its first SAMP/T system from Italy in 2023, following the training of Ukrainian personnel. In 2025, Denmark selected the SAMP/T NG variant for its national air defense modernization program, making it one of the few countries beyond France and Italy to formally adopt the system.
