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Italy Deploys SAMP/T Long-Range Air Defence System in Lithuania as Part of NATO's Rotational Air Defence Model.
From February 10 to 20, Lithuania hosted a joint exercise between the Lithuanian and Italian Air Defence Battalions, marking a significant milestone in the practical implementation of NATO’s Rotational Air Defence Model. This exercise involved the deployment of Italy’s SAMP/T long-range ground-based air defence system in Lithuania, designed to train air defence capabilities, including redeployment and integration, unified command and control, and the execution of air operations. The drill also represents a vital part of NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) framework within the Baltic states.
The SAMP/T system offers anti-aircraft and anti-missile capabilities, including against cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles. (Picture source: Lithuanian MoD)
Lt. Gen. Remigijus Baltrėnas, Chief of the Lithuanian Defence Staff, highlighted the importance of the synchronized operations between Lithuanian and Italian air defences, which exchange data, integrate air pictures, and execute tasks within the common NATO air defence system. “This is one more step in implementing the Rotational NATO Air Defence Model,” he remarked, commending the readiness and professional performance of the Italian Armed Forces, currently conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic region.
The SAMP/T system, an essential element of this exercise, is designed to protect personnel and critical infrastructure within the operational area. Capable of countering various aerial threats, the SAMP/T system offers anti-aircraft and anti-missile capabilities, including against cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles. Its armament includes the Aster 30 missiles and the Arabel multirole radar, which enable the system to operate effectively in environments subjected to significant interference and electronic jamming.
Vice Minister of National Defence Tomas Godliauskas emphasized the model’s importance in bolstering NATO's air defence and deterrence capabilities. “As we implement the Rotational NATO Air Defence Model, we are strengthening the entire Alliance's security,” he said. The model aims to maintain a comprehensive security approach across the region, ensuring that NATO members, including Lithuania and Italy, remain close allies in their shared defence efforts.
The exercise was carried out by the Lithuanian Armed Forces Air Defence Battalion, featuring the NASAMS mid-range air defence system alongside the SAMP/T long-range system. Italian and French fighter aircraft, which are part of the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic States, also participated, alongside the Lithuanian Armed Forces Air Operations Centre. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of interoperability and coordination among NATO allies.
Italy, which is currently undertaking its seventh NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states, is also contributing to NATO's Multinational Battle Groups and providing naval assets for the protection of the Baltic Sea. This cooperation underscores Italy’s commitment to NATO’s collective defence and the integration of air and missile defence systems across the Alliance.
The Rotational NATO Air Defence Model, which was approved at the NATO Summit in Vilnius, is intended to enhance the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defence System. This model aims to facilitate the smooth transition of air defence tasks while also strengthening the deterrence capabilities of the Alliance. Under the model, NATO members will rotate and integrate ground-based air and missile defence systems with fighter jets, focusing initially on the eastern flank of NATO.
The first implementation step of this model was seen during the Baltic Connection 24 readiness cycle in Lithuania, where the Netherlands deployed its Patriot ground-based long-range air defence system. This represents a critical move towards ensuring continuous and effective air defence capabilities across NATO's eastern borders.
As the NATO Air Defence Model progresses, the collaborative efforts of Italy, Lithuania, and other NATO allies will continue to enhance the Alliance’s collective defence posture, ensuring robust protection against evolving aerial threats.