Italy to continue supporting Ukraine with SAMP/T air defense systems.

The Italian Council of Ministers is expected to authorize the continued provision of arms, vehicles, and supplies to the Ukrainian Armed Forces until the end of 2024, with a possibility of extension until 2025.
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SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain), also known as Aster 30, is an advanced air defense system jointly developed by France and Italy. (Picture source: French MoD)

According to information from the Italian press, the upcoming shipments of aid from Italy to Ukraine are currently under review by the Intelligence Committee, chaired by former Defense Minister Lorenzo Guerini. The primary focus of this aid appears to be on anti-aircraft defense systems, particularly the SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain) systems, to protect civilians, energy infrastructure, cities, and schools from attacks.

The Italian minister emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting the need to defend these sensitive targets against attacks. However, he also noted that available resources are not unlimited, indicating that Italy has already done everything it can in this regard. Therefore, there may be limited room for further increasing these protective efforts.

It should be noted that the specific details of this new Italian aid to Ukraine have not yet been disclosed, and discussions within the Intelligence Committee are ongoing. We expect more information on this matter in the coming days.

Since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, Italy has played a significant role in providing military and technical support to the country. So far, Italy has carried out five separate shipments of military and technical equipment to Ukraine. This equipment includes 544 guided anti-tank missiles, 25 Stinger MANPADS portable air defense systems, and 20 155mm M109 howitzers. The list also includes 6 155mm PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, HH-70 155mm towed howitzers, 2 M270A1 MLRS multiple rocket launchers, as well as Skyguard air defense systems. Italy has also supplied Ukraine with Mamba anti-ship missile systems.

Italy has also provided 177 mortars, various types of artillery shells, 3,028 small arms, 4,722 sets of body armor, 1,440 helmets, 300 radios, 20,400 dry food rations, as well as ammunition, armored personnel carriers, armored vehicles, winter uniforms, BV-206 tracked all-terrain vehicles, anti-radar missiles, and mine detectors.

In addition to material assistance, the Italian government has granted direct financial aid to Ukraine totaling 110 million euros, as well as an interest-free loan of 200 million euros for 15 years, with a 7.5-year grace period for deferred repayment. This agreement was signed on August 5, 2022. Through international organizations, Italy has also committed to providing 25 million euros in aid. As an active participant in meetings of the Group of Seven states and international financial institutions, Italy has played a key role in securing an agreement to allocate 18.4 billion dollars to Ukraine to support its budget.

For reference, the SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain), also known as Aster 30, is an advanced air defense system jointly developed by France and Italy. Designed to intercept a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles, the SAMP/T is characterized by its high mobility and flexibility. The system uses the Aster 30 missile, known for its precision and ability to strike targets at medium and long ranges, thus providing extensive defensive coverage. The platform is capable of simultaneously tracking multiple targets and launching missiles to autonomously intercept threats. The SAMP/T is also integrated into NATO's air defense networks, allowing for increased interoperability during joint missions. This system represents a key component of modern air defense, particularly for countries committed to protecting their airspace from varied and sophisticated threats.