Italy finalizing 12th Ukraine military aid package with new SAMP/T air defense missiles.

Italy is finalizing its twelfth military aid package to Ukraine, featuring new SAMP/T air defense missiles and expanded munitions support. The decision underscores Rome’s enduring commitment to Kyiv’s defense as Russian missile strikes intensify with the onset of winter.

Italy is preparing its twelfth military aid package to Ukraine, a move that reinforces its long-term alignment with NATO’s defense objectives. According to information published by the press agency Bloomberg on October 24, 2025, and confirmed by individuals close to the discussions, the latest tranche will center on new SAMP/T air defense missiles and additional ammunition. The package reflects a strategic emphasis on fortifying Ukraine’s air defense network, a key priority as Kyiv braces for renewed Russian attacks on critical infrastructure.
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The Aster 30 is a vertically launched, radar-guided surface-to-air missile designed for high-speed interception of aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic threats at ranges up to 120 km and altitudes of 20 km. Developed by MBDA, it forms the core of the SAMP/T air defense system used by NATO forces.  (Picture source: French DGA)

If confirmed, the delivery, expected by year’s end pending parliamentary approval, would further reinforce Italy’s unique role as one of the few European states capable of supplying Ukraine with Western-made medium-range surface-to-air missile systems. The SAMP/T, co-developed by France’s Thales and Italy’s Leonardo through the Eurosam consortium, has become a cornerstone in Ukraine’s defense against high-speed aerial threats including cruise missiles, ballistic projectiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

To date, Ukraine has received one SAMP/T battery, delivered as part of a joint Franco-Italian initiative in early 2023. The battery, coordinated by France and supported logistically and technically by both governments, includes a multi-function Arabel radar, a command and control module, and vertical launchers armed with Aster 30 missiles. Capable of engaging aerial targets at ranges up to 120 kilometers and altitudes reaching 20 kilometers, the SAMP/T system is designed to counter saturated missile attacks with simultaneous multi-target engagement. The Aster 30 interceptor features active radar homing, high maneuverability, and a two-stage propulsion system, allowing it to neutralize high-speed aircraft, drones, and even short-range ballistic threats.

While the precise quantity of missiles or support components in the upcoming aid package remains classified under Italy’s national security laws, defense insiders indicate the delivery may include a significant resupply of Aster 30 interceptors to support the lone Ukrainian SAMP/T system now operating alongside U.S.-made Patriots and German-supplied IRIS-T units. The system, designated "MAMBA" in French service, has reportedly performed well in protecting key strategic assets across central Ukraine.

Rome’s strategic calculus appears driven not only by the tactical demands on the battlefield but also by Italy’s intent to assert itself as a central defense actor within Europe. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022, Giorgia Meloni’s government has approved eleven aid packages totaling between €2.5 and €3 billion, making Italy one of Ukraine’s most significant European military backers, albeit under a veil of institutional secrecy.

Italian authorities have not confirmed the scope or timeline of the twelfth package, consistent with a long-standing practice of withholding public details on military aid due to national legislation that shields defense shipments from parliamentary scrutiny. Nonetheless, parliamentary sources suggest that the government will encounter minimal resistance within its ruling coalition, which has largely coalesced around support for Ukraine. The timeline for final approval will depend on legislative scheduling but could see the package finalized before the end of December.

From an operational standpoint, the prospect of additional Aster 30 missiles could prove critical for Ukraine as winter approaches. Russian forces have historically intensified long-range strikes during colder months, aiming to degrade Ukraine’s energy grid and logistics infrastructure. In this context, every added interceptor strengthens Ukraine’s capacity to maintain strategic resilience. The SAMP/T’s advanced radar and network-centric architecture enable it to operate in tandem with NATO surveillance and tracking assets, enhancing overall reaction time and interception accuracy.

For Italy, continued deliveries of SAMP/T components or munitions also reflect positively on its domestic defense sector, particularly Leonardo, which co-produces the Aster missiles in partnership with MBDA. Defense analysts note that participation in high-profile joint aid efforts increases Italy’s industrial relevance within NATO and elevates its political influence in shaping the future of European defense cooperation.

Despite the confidential nature of the aid, high-level NATO officials have expressed cautious optimism regarding Italy’s consistency. “Air defense systems like SAMP/T are among the few assets that can truly tip the scale in Ukraine’s favor against Russia’s long-range capabilities,” a NATO source told Army Recognition, speaking on condition of anonymity. “If Italy follows through, it will be a major boost for our collective deterrence posture.”

As Kyiv looks to harden its skies ahead of renewed Russian offensives, the strategic value of even a modest package of SAMP/T surface-to-air missiles cannot be overstated. The system’s proven performance, mobility, and intercept range fill a vital gap between short-range MANPADS and longer-range strategic systems. Whether Italy’s next move will include further launcher components or new radar elements remains unclear, but the momentum signals Rome’s intent to remain a reliable contributor to Ukraine’s survival and to Europe’s stability.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.