France, the arrival of the SAMP/T NG at CEAM: a revolution for French and European Air Defence

Mont-de-Marsan, February 20, 2026 – The Air Warfare Centre (CEAM-AWC) has just received the new Next Generation Medium Range/Ground Surface-to-Air Missile System (SAMP/T NG), marking a significant step for the sovereignty and protection of armed forces, critical infrastructure, and civilian populations against modern aerial threats. Designed to operate in both civilian and military airspace environments, it enables seamless coordination with friendly aircraft, thus strengthening the security of shared airspace.

An essential modernization in the face of evolving aerial threats

The arrival of the SAMP/T NG at CEAM marks a new era for French and European air defence. This deployment is part of an ambitious modernization programme, the result of industrial and governmental collaboration between France, Italy, and key European defence partners. As early as 2015, the French Armed Forces General Staff requested the modernization of the radar module, the engagement module, and the fire control system, adapted to the new capabilities of the ASTER 30 B1 NT missile, which is capable of intercepting targets at very high altitudes and high speeds, including hypersonic missiles. This programme also guarantees increased resilience against cyber threats.

Next steps: operational evaluation and deployment

The CEAM’s DSA-LADA brand plays a central role in the system’s qualification, drawing on its long-standing expertise in air defence and its experience with the SAMP/T MAMBA. The delivery of the first SAMP/T NG section allows for the start of in-depth operational evaluations, quickly followed by progressive integration into the French Armed Forces. CEAM experts will notably test the system’s battery deployment and deployment, the integration of the new CONTACT combat radios replacing the PR4G, as well as tactical and data link exchanges with command centres (C2) and the air defence chain. They will also evaluate deployment, mobility, and energy autonomy, with rapid operational implementation, as well as functional and C4ISR integration within an air defence chain, including documentation and maintenance.

Towards an ever more effective and sovereign air defence

The SAMP/T NG represents much more than a simple technological evolution: it embodies French and European air sovereignty, offering an autonomous and effective response to contemporary security challenges. Its ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets at long range, coupled with its mobility and interoperability, makes it an indispensable tool for national and multinational operations. The arrival of the SAMP/T NG at CEAM marks a new era for French and European air defence. This system, the result of exemplary industrial and governmental collaboration, strengthens France’s ability to protect its interests and allies against increasingly complex threats. The coming months will be crucial for validating its performance and preparing its operational deployment.

Source CEAM Air Warfare Centre

Unofficial translation by EDR On-Line

Photo courtesy CEAM