The eurosam Joint Venture (JV), supported by its three partners MBDA France, MBDA Italia, and Thales, is advancing a novel generation of long-range surface-to-air systems utilizing ASTER missiles (the SAMP/T NG ground system, which succeeds the PAAMS & LRR naval system along with the ASTER B1NT missile). This initiative is guided by a fresh management team comprised of Anne Diaz de Tuesta, Alexis Grenier, and Mirko Leonardi.
Anne Diaz de Tuesta, the previous Administrator and Head of the JV’s Programs, was designated as Managing Director of eurosam on 1 September 2023. As an alumna of the Ecole Polytechnique and ENSAE (Supaero), she has occupied numerous operational management roles within the DGA (the French defense procurement agency), the Strategic Defense Directorate (now known as DGRIS – Directorate General for International Relations and Strategy), the Directorate General for Enterprise in Bercy, and MBDA, all within highly international contexts.
On 1 August 2023, Alexis Grenier assumed the role of Administrator and Commercial Director for eurosam. A graduate of Ecole Centrale, he has amassed significant Defense Industry expertise throughout a globally-oriented career. He became part of the Thales Group in 2006, having previously served as CEO of MOSS.
Mirko Leonardi was appointed Administrator and Head of Programs on 1 September 2023, transitioning from his previous role within the eurosam JV as the Customer Support and Services Department Head. After graduating from Italy’s Accademia Navale, he undertook positions initially in operational units and subsequently within the Italian Defense Staff, before joining MBDA Italia in 2020.
The new management team of eurosam will be tasked with executing all naval and land programs contracted with the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), ensuring the delivery of cutting-edge surface-to-air defense systems to the French, Italian, and British armed forces. They will be operating in newly constructed facilities that provide a modern and appealing work environment. Additionally, the team will continue to foster European collaboration in air defense and promote the outstanding programs developed by eurosam to potential international customers.
