France signed a contract for the development of a multi-layered version of the SAMP/T NG system to enhance the air defense capabilities of its Air and Space Force. The agreement, signed by the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) with Eurosam Group on April 30, 2026, envisions the integration of ASTER and MICA VL missiles on the same platform. Under the 2024-2030 Military Programming Law, eight batteries will be delivered starting in 2030.

Eurosam, with parent companies MBDA and Thales, serves as the system integrator for this project. SAMP/T NG is a platform developed through France-Italy cooperation and represents one of Europe's most advanced air defense solutions. The company specializes in radar, missile, and command-control systems within the defense industrial ecosystem. MBDA holds a leading position in missile technology globally, while Thales plays a pioneering role in electronic systems and sensor technology. This partnership represents a critical step in advancing Europe's integrated air defense capabilities.

The new configuration combines the anti-ballistic missile capacity provided by ASTER B1 and ASTER B1NT medium to long-range missiles with the rapid response capabilities of MICA VL short-range missiles. MICA VL, available in infrared and radio frequency versions, can address a wide variety of air threats. The system will operate integrated with sensors such as GF300 or GM200 radars and will be coordinated through the CMD3D higher-level command system. The new engagement module (ME-NG) will automatically select the most appropriate missile for the emerging threat spectrum, providing a proportionate defense response.

This development marks a significant milestone in France's air defense architecture. Previously, MICA VL batteries were deployed during the 2024 Olympic Games, equipped with their own command centers. The new integrated structure will also be supported by MISTRAL 3 short-range systems and counter-drone solutions. Thus, France will transition to a network-centric multi-layered defense architecture, providing more effective protection in today's operational environment where the number and variety of air threats continue to increase.

Air defense systems conforming to NATO standards, when compared with systems such as Patriot, NASAMS, and Iron Dome, demonstrate that SAMP/T NG's multi-layered structure offers comparable capabilities. From a Turkish defense industry perspective, ASELSAN's HISAR system family similarly follows a multi-layered air defense concept. France's move reflects the objective of strengthening Europe's independent air defense capabilities and offering alternative solutions to NATO allies. The delivery of eight batteries is vital for France to maintain its capacity to counter all types of threats over the coming decade.