French/Italian SAMP/T increases now air defense capabilities of Ukrainian armed forces.

Ukraine's determination to strengthen its defenses has led to a significant upgrade in its air defense capabilities with the delivery of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defense system. Amidst the ongoing conflict and increasing threats from Russia, the SAMP/T system, also called MAMBA, has emerged as a crucial asset in safeguarding Ukraine's airspace. This system is designed to counter a wide range of airborne threats, including missiles and drones, making it a formidable shield against aggression. Let's delve into the features and capabilities of this advanced air defense system that has enhanced Kyiv's security stance.
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Launcher unit and command post of French SAMP/T Mamba air defense missile system. (Picture source Army Recognition)

Over the past few weeks, Ukraine has faced multiple assaults from Russian ballistic missiles and drones, including Iranian-made Shahed drones. The culmination of this offensive occurred on May 15, 2023, when the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, was subjected to a severe aerial strike. A Ukrainian military official described this attack as an "unprecedented" barrage, involving an unusually high number of missiles launched from various directions within a short timeframe.

The United States and its NATO allies have shown steadfast support for Ukraine by providing various air defense missile systems such as the Patriot MIM-104, IRIS-T SLM, Crotale NG, and Hawk, among others. Recently, the United Kingdom bolstered this support by delivering Storm Shadow cruise missiles. The newly arrived SAMP/T system will further enhance the Ukrainian military's air defense capabilities.

In a subsequent report by the Army Recognition editorial team in March 2023, it was revealed that Ukrainian soldiers had commenced training on the SAMP/T air defense missile system in Italy. The training began in early March at Santa Barbara di Sabaudi, the site of the Italian army's anti-air command. On June 20, 2023, in Paris, France, French President Emmanuel Macron announced during his address at the 2023 Paris Air Show that Ukraine has not only taken delivery of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defense missile system but has also effectively integrated and activated the system for deployment.

SAMP-T MLT Launcher unit

Arabel

At the heart of the SAMP/T Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System lies an innovative fire control system, featuring ARABEL multi-function electronic scanning radar. This X-Band 3D radar offers exceptional surveillance and target-tracking capabilities, allowing the system to simultaneously monitor up to 100 targets. Notably, the ARABEL radar also plays a vital role in guiding the system's missiles during engagements, enabling it to engage multiple threats simultaneously with remarkable precision.

Another key advantage of the SAMP/T launcher system is its versatility. It can be deployed as a mobile land configuration, providing crucial ground-based sensors for medium-range surface-to-air missiles. Additionally, the system can be adapted for naval use, extending its defensive capabilities to protect Ukraine's maritime assets.

The SAMP/T MAMBA launcher vehicle serves as the launch platform for this advanced air defense system. With eight missile containers ready for launch, the MAMBA vehicle ensures swift response times, allowing the system to engage incoming threats promptly. Each missile can be fired in rapid succession from a single launcher, enabling a formidable barrage of defensive capabilities against hostile targets.

Aster 30 Block 1 missile

The SAMP/T system is armed with the Aster 30 Block 1 missile, equipped with several cutting-edge upgrades. These upgrades include a re-engineered seeker, fuse, signal processing, and a directional explosive warhead. The sophisticated warhead design concentrates shrapnel toward the target, significantly enhancing the missile's effectiveness in neutralizing incoming threats.

The integration of the SAMP/T system alongside other sophisticated air defense systems, such as German IRIS-T batteries, Hawk anti-missile systems, Avenger, and Patriot units, underscores Ukraine's commitment to establishing a robust defense network. By fortifying its air defense capabilities, Ukraine demonstrates its dedication to safeguarding its airspace and deterring potential aggressors.

If you would like to read more information about the SAMP/T Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System, we suggest you read the analysis written by the Army Recognition editorial team by clicking SAMP/T Technica Data