Flash News: Italy Sends SAMP/T Air Defense System to Lithuania to Test NATO Capabilities Amid Russia-Ukraine War.

Italy is set to deploy SAMP/T long-range ground-based air defense missile systems to Lithuania as part of NATO’s Rotational Air Defense Model, according to a statement released by the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense (MoD) on February 10, 2025. This deployment, which includes joint exercises with NATO allies, aims to enhance deterrence and defense capabilities in the region, particularly in light of ongoing security concerns stemming from Russia’s war against Ukraine.
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The SAMP/T air defense system, the backbone of Italy's air defense, deployed to Lithuania to enhance NATO’s regional security. (Picture source: il Fatto Quotidiano)

The Italian SAMP/T air defense missile systems will be stationed in Šiauliai, where they will participate in coordinated air defense operations. The exercises will involve Italian and French fighter jets, currently engaged in NATO’s Baltic Air Policing Mission, as well as Lithuania’s NASAMS air defense systems. These assets will be synchronized under NATO’s integrated air and missile defense command and control system, ensuring seamless cooperation between different national forces.

Lithuania, along with its Baltic neighbors Latvia and Estonia, has been a key frontline state in NATO’s efforts to deter potential Russian aggression. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, NATO has reinforced its presence in the region through enhanced forward presence (eFP) battlegroups, air policing missions, and increased military exercises.

Air defense has emerged as a critical component of regional security, as recent conflicts have demonstrated the growing threat of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drone warfare. The war in Ukraine has highlighted the devastating impact of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and precision strikes, underscoring the necessity of a multi-layered air defense network.

The SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain) is a highly capable long-range air defense system developed by the Franco-Italian consortium Eurosam. It utilizes Aster 30 missiles, which can intercept enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. The deployment of SAMP/T in Lithuania enhances NATO’s deterrence posture by providing a modern, integrated air defense capability in the Baltic region. It also demonstrates alliance solidarity, reinforcing NATO’s commitment to collective defense under Article 5, while boosting interoperability between different air defense systems, including Lithuania’s NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System). Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in countering aerial threats, particularly Russian fighter jets, drones, and missile strikes, which have been used extensively in Ukraine.

The deployment of Italy’s SAMP/T systems to Lithuania represents a significant step in bolstering NATO’s air defense strategy in Eastern Europe. As tensions persist between NATO and Russia, strengthening Lithuania’s multi-layered air defense is essential to protecting critical infrastructure, military assets, and civilian populations from potential aerial threats. By integrating Italian, French, and Lithuanian air defense assets under NATO command, this initiative reinforces the alliance’s ability to respond swiftly to any security challenge in the region.

The SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain) is a mobile long-range air defense system developed by the Franco-Italian consortium Eurosam, consisting of Thales, MBDA France, and MBDA Italy. Designed to protect military forces and critical infrastructure, it is equipped with Aster 30 missiles, capable of intercepting aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles at distances of up to 100 km and altitudes of 25 km. The system features 360-degree coverage, allowing it to engage multiple targets simultaneously, and integrates with NATO air defense networks, ensuring interoperability with other allied systems. Its high mobility enables rapid deployment and repositioning in response to evolving threats, while its advanced radar and fire control systems allow precise target detection and engagement.

Currently, in service with France and Italy, the SAMP/T has been deployed for NATO operations and international missions, reinforcing Europe’s air defense capabilities against modern aerial threats.