Successful Test Firing of the French Version of the SAMP/T NG System
On December 15, 2025, the French variant of the SAMP/T NG air defense system achieved a significant milestone with its inaugural test firing at the DGA Essais de Missiles test range in Biscarosse, Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This event underscores the advanced capabilities of this system, which is critical for France and its allies.
Ground Fire Radar: A Technological Breakthrough
Each SAMP/T NG unit is equipped with the Thales Ground Fire radar, recognized as a leader in air surveillance and defense technology. The radar boasts:
- Detection Range: Up to 400 km
- Panoramic Coverage: 360° azimuth and 90° elevation
Since its commencement of series production in early 2025, the Ground Fire radar has consistently demonstrated superior performance, particularly during this latest firing exercise.
Exemplifying System Performance
This recent test has reaffirmed the high efficiency of the SAMP/T NG air defense system, which is a product of Eurosam, a joint venture between Thales and MBDA. Following an initial successful test in Italy on December 3, 2025, this latest demonstration illustrates the enhancements in the fire control capabilities of the SAMP/T NG system, especially the modernized Engagement Module integrated with the Thales Ground Fire radar.
Advanced Radar Capabilities
The Ground Fire radar utilizes fully digital active electronically scanned antennas (AESA) technology, offering unparalleled detection, tracking, and classification capabilities in challenging environments, including:
- Maritime areas
- Mountainous terrains
- Dense traffic conditions
- Environments with jamming
Notable features of the radar include:
- Refresh Rate: 1 second
- Simultaneous Target Detection: Capable of identifying drones, combat aircraft, and ballistic missiles
This radar not only enhances operational flexibility but also provides strategic mobility necessary for tactical operations.
Path to Operational Readiness
The successful test firing marks another critical step towards the operational deployment of the SAMP/T NG system in France and Italy, with initial deliveries anticipated in 2026. As the sole European solution for medium- and long-range air defense against various threats—ballistic, maneuvering, and saturation—the SAMP/T NG establishes a crucial defense posture for allied nations.
The SAMP/T NG initiative is managed by the Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement (OCCAR), with Eurosam acting as the prime contractor.
Strategic Implications
Raphael DESI, Vice President of Integrated Airspace Protection Systems at Thales, stated, “The success of this firing campaign of the French variant of the SAMP/T NG at Biscarosse confirms the remarkable capabilities of this system, which contributes to the industrial and defense sovereignty of European nations. It is a further step towards the commissioning of the system in the forces in 2026.”
As Europe faces an increasingly complex security landscape, the advancements represented by the SAMP/T NG system play an essential role in bolstering defense infrastructure and ensuring operational sovereignty for member nations.
Image courtesy of Thales.
