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SAMP/T NG Air Defense System at the Core of European Air Defense with First GF300 MRI Radar Validated.
As part of the FSAF-PAAMS program, managed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), the first serial GF300 MRI radar for the French Air and Space Force’s SAMP/T NG system has completed its factory acceptance tests. This milestone marks a significant step in the development of the new air and missile defense system, designed to enhance the French Armed Forces’ capabilities against a wide range of threats, including ballistic missiles, modern aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
Using Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, the GF300 MRI provides 360-degree coverage and an extended range, enabling the detection, tracking, and classification of multiple targets, even in environments with strong electronic interference (Picture source: OCCAR)
The tests were conducted at Thales’ facility in Limours, France, where a series of rigorous assessments were performed to ensure the highest performance standards for the multifunction radar. Using Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, the GF300 MRI provides 360-degree coverage and an extended range, enabling the detection, tracking, and classification of multiple targets, even in environments with strong electronic interference. It is designed to counter various air and missile threats, including a combination of Air Breathing Threats (ABT) and Theater Ballistic Missiles (TBM), while maintaining high mobility and operational flexibility.
The validation process was carried out by Thales and Eurosam, with the involvement of experts from the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA), DGA GQA (Governmental Quality Assurance), and OCCAR. This achievement demonstrates the readiness of industrial production lines to support the manufacturing of the new-generation Radar Module and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system. This first serial GF300 MRI radar is now being integrated with other modules of the first SAMP/T NG unit, which will soon be delivered for initial operational testing by the French Air and Space Force.
The SAMP/T NG represents a major advancement over the existing SAMP/T system, also known as MAMBA in France. Designed for the protection of critical infrastructure and deployed forces, it is a highly capable surface-to-air missile system that can engage a wide variety of airborne threats, including theater ballistic missiles up to 600 km away. The system is built around the Aster 30 missile and a next-generation multifunction radar, providing 360-degree detection and engagement coverage. Its modularity and interoperability with NATO air defense networks allow for rapid deployment, facilitated by integration onto tactical vehicles such as the Renault Kerax in France and the Astra 8x8 in Italy.
Equipped with eight ready-to-launch Aster 30 missiles, the SAMP/T NG can respond within ten seconds and engage high-altitude targets at a maximum range of 100 km. Its inertial guidance system, with in-flight trajectory correction, ensures high precision, while its multifunction radar can track up to 100 targets simultaneously and engage ten at once. Already in service with France, Italy, Singapore, and Ukraine, the system is evolving with the NG version, incorporating a rotating AESA radar, an improved Aster 30 Block 1NT missile, and enhanced connectivity to strengthen its performance, particularly against emerging ballistic threats.
The strategic relevance of the SAMP/T NG is increasing amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, particularly concerning the role of the United States in European defense. Following Donald Trump’s election and the subsequent changes in U.S. foreign policy, Europe is reassessing its missile defense strategy. The announced reduction in U.S. military assistance to Ukraine and uncertainties surrounding Washington’s commitment to NATO highlight the need for European nations to strengthen their own air defense capabilities and reduce reliance on American technology.
Against this backdrop, Denmark’s choice between the SAMP/T NG and the U.S.-made Patriot system carries significant strategic implications. While the Patriot system has an extensive operational history and proven effectiveness against ballistic missiles, particularly with the PAC-3 MSE variant, the SAMP/T NG offers a European alternative with full coverage and interoperability within European forces. The decision extends beyond technical considerations, reflecting a broader geopolitical shift as Europe seeks to enhance strategic autonomy and industrial sovereignty.
In response to these developments, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom have accelerated the production of Aster missiles and increased investment in the SAMP/T NG to secure supply chains and ensure the effectiveness of their armed forces. While concerns have been raised regarding the SAMP/T’s ability to intercept ballistic missiles, particularly in Ukraine, ongoing technological advancements are addressing these limitations. The integration of the Aster 30 Block 1NT missile and the rotating AESA radar is expected to enhance interception capabilities and position the system as a viable alternative to the Patriot.
As Europe navigates an evolving security landscape, strengthening independent defense production is becoming increasingly urgent—not only to reinforce military resilience but also to ensure coherence in industrial and operational decision-making. The development of the SAMP/T NG aligns with this objective, offering European nations an advanced air defense system designed to address emerging threats while consolidating the continent’s defense industry. The selection of air defense systems is no longer solely a technical decision but a key factor in shaping Europe’s strategic posture amid global security challenges.