Rome prepares four SAMP/T NG batteries and Aster 30 missiles
The Italian government has approved a new secret military aid package for Ukraine worth approximately €3 billion. It includes SAMP/T NG air defence batteries, Aster 30 interceptor missiles, and radar systems. The first ammunition deliveries are expected by October. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Марія Науменко) citing La Repubblica, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
The government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has agreed on the decision, which will be legally formalized in the thirteenth decree on military assistance. The core of the new supply consists of advanced air and anti-ballistic missile defence systems.
Ukrainian forces are set to receive four SAMP/T NG system batteries alongside Aster 30 interceptors. The delivery will be complemented by seven long-range radar units, six manufactured by France’s Thales and one by Italy’s Leonardo.
Intergovernmental Agreements and Joint Production
The supply follows agreements made between Italy and France in July. Both nations jointly manufacture the SAMP/T air defence systems and Aster 30 missiles used to counter air and missile strikes.
Paris and Rome are also considering granting Ukraine permission to localize the production of Aster 30 N1BT interceptors. Producing the missiles on Ukrainian soil aims to reduce reliance on European suppliers.
Ammunition Stocks and Delivery Timelines
The Ukrainian Defence Forces currently operate two previously delivered SAMP/T batteries. While highly effective in combat, a shortage of ammunition emerged since the summer of 2025 as stockpiles in Italy and France dropped to minimal levels.
To address the issue, missile manufacturing is set to increase. Rome plans to transfer a portion of the interceptors to Ukraine by October to supply existing units and the newly deployed systems.
Aid Funding Sources
The total value of the package is estimated at around €3 billion. Financing will be covered by European Union funds under the Ukraine Support Loan program.
The Italian government previously confirmed its commitment to strengthening defence support for Ukraine. On August 24, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the preparation of a new aid package following discussions with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
Illustrative photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine / CC BY 4.0
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