France is modifying the SAMP/T air defense system to shoot down hypersonic and aeroballistic missiles

France will launch the production of modified SAMP/T NG anti-aircraft missile systems in 2026, which will be able to shoot down, in particular, hypersonic and aeroballistic missiles, reports edition of Opex360.

According to journalists, it was assumed that the production of these complexes would start no earlier than 2027, the French authorities decided to speed up the process.

It is expected that by 2030 the French army will receive eight such complexes, and by 2034 — four more air defense systems.

According to engineers, SAMP/T NG should retain all the strengths of its predecessor — The SAMP/T air defense system, which proved itself positively when the Defense Forces of Ukraine repelled the air attacks of the Russian aggressor country.

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

At the same time, the modified complex should show not only the ability to shoot down high-speed targets at significant distances, but also the ability to conduct combat work in the conditions of active operation of the enemy's electronic warfare and cyber attacks.

Currently it is known that the SAMP/T NG will be based on the promising Aster 30 Block 1NT anti-missile, which has been under development since 2015, and it will have a target detection system the Ground Fire 300 radar station, journalists report.

The modified complex is expected to be able to shoot down air targets at a distance of up to 150 kilometers, and detect targets at a distance of up to 350 kilometers. The first fire tests of the SAMP/T NG should take place in October 2026.

The head of the French Ministry of Defense, Sébastien Lecornu, during the recent conference on European air and missile defense in Rome, confirmed the order for eight SAMP/T NG systems for the needs of the AAE (Air and space forces of France — ed.). And clarified — it is expected that such air defense systems will enter service from 2026.