The SAMP/T Mamba air defence system, which includes radar and eight Aster missile launchers, is now deployed and operational in Ukraine protecting key installations, according to French President Emmanuel Macron.
Macron announced the delivery of the Franco-Italian system at a speech in Paris on 19 June during an air defence conference that brought together EU defence ministers, U.S. and NATO military officials, and industry executives. He said that the system was a demonstration of Europe’s solidarity and commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“It really is Europe protecting Europe,” Macron said, adding that the SAMP/T Mamba system was a “game-changer” for Ukraine’s air defence capabilities.
The SAMP/T Mamba system has a range of about 100 kilometres and can intercept ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. It is intended to help Ukraine defend against Russian attacks on key infrastructure and civilian areas.
Ukraine has been seeking to modernize its air defence systems, which are outdated and vulnerable to Russian jamming and electronic warfare. In addition to the SAMP/T Mamba system, Ukraine also received two American-made Patriot air defence systems in April.
The delivery of the SAMP/T Mamba system was finalized in February after France and Italy agreed to provide Ukraine with the air defence instruments it requested. Ukrainian troops completed training on the system in March.
The SAMP/T Mamba system is also deployed in Romania, where it protects the strategic Black Sea port of Constanta. France and Italy are among the leading European countries that have supported Ukraine’s efforts to join NATO and the EU.
SAMP/T Mamba
SAMP/T Mamba is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the European consortium Eurosam. It is designed to provide air defence against a variety of threats, such as aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones.
The system consists of a fire control unit, a radar, and up to six launchers, each carrying eight missiles. The missiles have a range of 100+ km and can intercept targets at altitudes of up to 25 km.
The system can operate in autonomous mode or in coordination with other air defence systems. SAMP/T Mamba is currently in service with the French and Italian armies and air forces and has been exported to Qatar and Turkey.
