“Soaring Success: ASTER B1NT Missile Test Affirms SAMP/T NG’s Long-Distance Defense Prowess”
The second ASTER B1 New Technology missile (ASTER B1NT), developed by eurosam, was successfully test-fired at the DGA Essais de Missiles evaluation facility, in the attendance of delegates from the trio of participating nations (France, Italy, and the UK) as part of the significant trilateral Air Defence FSAF-PAAMS partnership overseen by OCCAR.
Following the first successful test in October 2024, this subsequent launch validated the missile’s enhanced distance capability. The ASTER B1NT missile can effectively target and intercept at a notably extended range (up to 150 km) and at higher altitudes due to various upgrades integrated into this cutting-edge generation of the ASTER series. This latest successful test contributes to the validation of the Long Range capabilities of the SAMP/T NG system, demonstrating the sophisticated operational functionalities of the new ASTER B1NT missile, which will facilitate the interception of more demanding aerial and missile threats regarding range, agility, stealth, or speed.
This test signifies a monumental achievement for the collaborative ASTER B1NT and SAMP/T NG projects supervised by OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) for France and Italy. With the dedication and professionalism from eurosam, MBDA, and Thales teams, combined with OCCAR and experts from both countries – particularly from DGA and Segredifesa/DNA – this milestone embodies a vital leap forward in the advancement of these innovative, state-of-the-art Air Defence systems. These advanced systems will be supplied 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 various naval programs managed by eurosam and OCCAR for the two nations, including the Mid-Life Update of Horizon Frigates.
