MBDA has delivered the first batch of Aster air defense missiles to Italy under a €2 billion ($2.29 billion) agreement signed in late 2022.
The joint contract between Italy and France involves the supply of 700 missiles. Originally slated for 2026, the delivery timeline was advanced thanks to accelerated production efforts by Eurosam, a consortium formed by MBDA and Thales, in response to growing security concerns in Europe.
Earlier this year, the UK joined Italy and France in placing an additional order for 218 Aster missiles.
Contract Scope
The deal includes four variants of the Aster missile: Aster 30 B1 New Technology (NT), Aster 30 B1, Aster 30 B, and the medium-range Aster 15.
The Aster 30 B1 NT, designed for high maneuverability and faster response, will equip SAMP/T NG air defense systems operated by the French Air Force, the Italian Army, Italian Air Force, and Italian Navy Horizon-class frigates.
The Aster 30 B1 is intended for the Italian Air Force, while the Aster 30 and Aster 15 variants will serve both French and Italian naval forces.
Aster Missile Family
The Aster missile family features vertically launched, surface-to-air systems capable of engaging threats at ranges between 30 and 150 kilometers (19–93 miles).
The Aster 15 is optimized for intercepting aircraft and saturation missile attacks, while the longer-range Aster 30 provides defense against ballistic missiles. These systems are integral to the SAMP/T and PAAMS air defense networks used by France, Italy, and the UK.
