Image source: topwar.ru
The developers of the SAMP/T air defense system from the Franco-Italian Eurosam consortium have raised the product to a new level by creating the NG ("new generation") modification. As a result of the changes made to the complex, it has transformed from a classic air defense system into a full-fledged missile defense system capable, as stated, of intercepting hypersonic and ballistic targets.
SAMP/T NG received the new Aster 30 Block 1 NT (New Technology) rocket, which is the "heart" of the complex. Unlike the older versions, it has an active Ka-band seeker, that is, it operates at a higher frequency, which allows it to see targets with low EPR and more accurately aim at high-speed aerial objects. The missile defense system can now shoot down medium-range missiles (up to 600 km) and maneuvering warheads.
Battery Management Center:
Image source: topwar.ru
Instead of one old radar, the latest AFAR radars based on gallium nitride (GaN) are now used – France chose the Ground Fire 300 from Thales, Italy – Kronos GM HP from Leonardo. They see targets at a distance of over 350 km (compared to 150-200 km in the old version) and can simultaneously escort more than 1,000 objects.
The ME (New Generation Engagement Module) control module is a completely updated "brain" of the complex, which, thanks to its open architecture, makes it possible to easily integrate the system into the NATO common defense and connect any other radars or launchers to it. AI helps the operator to prioritize faster when hitting objects (for example, to distinguish a false target from a real one).
Ground Fire 300 radar (left) and Kronos GM HP:
Image source: topwar.ru
SAMP/T NG is the first European system optimized to combat hypersonic threats. It is designed to intercept highly maneuverable objects flying at a speed of more than Mach 5.
If the old SAMP/T was an analogue of the early Patriot PAC-2, then the NG version is a direct competitor to the latest Patriot PAC-3 MSE and the THAAD system.
The launcher:
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The first foreign customer of the system was Denmark, which recently chose SAMP/T NG instead of Patriot, primarily due to much more favorable delivery times. On this occasion, the local edition of Berlingske notes:
Copenhagen has signed a contract worth €1.47 billion for the supply of 4 air defense systems. The configuration of the complex has not been disclosed. It can include both 4 PU and 1 radar (as in the Italian army), and 6 PU and 1 radar (as in the French).
The manufacturers, France and Italy, intend to supply up to 8 SAMP/T NG air defense systems to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The payment is likely to be made through a loan from the EU worth €90 billion. It is likely that individual launchers and radars have already been to the front as part of testing in combat conditions.
