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Italy is gearing up to send another SAMP/T anti-aircraft missile system [SAMS] to Ukraine shortly, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. “We will send SAMP/T to protect hospitals, schools, universities,” several media outlets across Europe and worldwide reported the minister saying.
The SAMP/T system stands out as one of the most advanced air defense systems in Europe. It was developed through a joint effort by France and Italy. This sophisticated system employs Aster 30 missiles and is designed to shield vital locations from a diverse array of threats, including ballistic missiles, aircraft, and drones.
What makes the SAMP/T system particularly noteworthy is its mobility, allowing it to be quickly deployed in various combat situations. Capable of striking targets up to 100 kilometers away and at altitudes of up to 25 kilometers, the SAMP/T is a crucial component in protecting strategic locations such as hospitals and schools, just as Minister Tajani highlighted.
Besides the SAMP/T system, Italy is providing Ukraine with additional defense equipment, including light armored vehicles, anti-tank missiles, and electronic warfare systems. The Italian government underscores that all these weapons are strictly for defensive purposes.
Italy’s goal is to assist Ukraine in bolstering its defense capabilities against attacks while avoiding any escalation of the conflict or breaches of international law. Rome is adamant that these arms deliveries should not be used for offensive operations against Russian territory.
In August, Foreign Minister Tajani reiterated that Italy does not intend for Ukrainian forces to use Italian weapons to strike Russian territory. He emphasized that Italy primarily sends defensive weapons. According to him, the Italian military is preparing a battery of SAMP/T air defense systems for transfer to Ukraine.
Antonio Tajani reassured that “protecting Ukraine does not mean steering us toward a world war.” In June, it was announced that Italy is gearing up to provide Ukraine with a second SAMP/T air defense system.
Public opinion in Italy, as well as within its political sphere, is divided over supporting Ukraine. While the government and several political leaders are staunch advocates of military aid, a significant number of citizens and opposition parties voice concerns about potentially escalating the conflict.
Opponents argue that sending weapons might entangle Italy and Europe further in the war. However, supporters see these measures as vital to safeguarding Ukraine’s democracy and sovereignty. Despite these differing views, the government remains steadfast in its commitment to backing Kyiv.
Earlier this week, Italian Defense Ministry Chief Guido Crosetto announced that the Italian armed forces had placed an order for an additional 10 SAMP/T air defense systems. This significant move underscores Italy’s determination to bolster its own defense capabilities.
Moreover, this decision might signal that Italy is gearing up for a long-term commitment to European security, particularly in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The creation of new systems could not only help in addressing immediate defense needs but also enhance Italy’s potential to supply allies like Ukraine, thereby solidifying its role in international defense cooperation.
While Italy and Ukraine are users of the SAMP/T [also known as MAMBA] air defense system, several other countries also rely on this advanced technology. France is a prominent user, integrating SAMP/T into its air force operations.
Interestingly, France has recently placed an order for seven additional upgraded SAMP/T NG systems, which are expected to be delivered by 2025. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom contributes to the production of some components for the system through its collaboration with the MBDA consortium.
Saudi Arabia, one of the early adopters outside Europe, has also invested in the SAMP/T system to bolster its air defenses. This system is particularly valued for its high mobility and ability to counter various threats such as ballistic missiles and aircraft, making it an ideal choice for nations with stringent security needs.
The versatility of the SAMP/T system is further highlighted by its capability to deploy different types of missiles, like the Aster 15 and Aster 30, offering both medium and long-range defense against contemporary air threats.
BULIGARIAN MILITARY