Successful Aster B1NT firing demonstrates long-range capability of SAMP/T NG

A second Eurosam Aster B1 New Technology (B1NT) missile has recently been successfully launched at the DGA Essais de Missiles test range in southwest France in the presence of representatives of the three participating states (France, Italy and UK) of the historical trilateral Air Defence FSAF-PAAMS co-operation managed by Europe’s Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), Eurosam announced on 30 July 2025.

After the first successful Aster B1NT firing in October 2024, this second firing validated the long-range capability of the missile, which is able to intercept targets at ranges out to around 150 km and at higher altitudes thanks to several improvements implemented in this new generation of the Aster family.

The new successful firing contributes to the qualification of the long-range capability of the SAMP/T NG air defence system with the demonstration of the enhanced operational capacities of the new Aster B1NT missile, which will allow the interception of more difficult aerial targets in terms of range, manoeuvrability, stealth or speed. The Aster B1NT missile will thus cover the full spectrum of threats, including short- to medium-range tactical ballistic missiles, low manoeuvring missiles and even hypersonic missiles.

SAMP/T NG is the new version of the SAMP/T system today in service in France and in Italy.

“This firing is a great achievement for the bilateral Aster B1NT and SAMP/T NG programmes managed by OCCAR for France and Italy,” Eurosam stated in a press release. “Thanks to the dedication and professionalism of Eurosam, MBDA and Thales teams, OCCAR, and experts from the two nations – in particular from the DGA [French defence procurement agency] and Segredifesa/DNA [Italian National Armaments Directorate] – this success is an important step forward for the development of these new cutting-edge air defence assets. These assets will be delivered to the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace (French Air and Space Force), the Esercito Italiano (Italian Army) and the Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force).”

The Aster B1NT missile will also be integrated into naval programmes managed by Eurosam and OCCAR for the two nations, such as the mid-life update of France and Italy’s Horizon air-defence frigates.