Italy has received its first shipment of Aster air defense missiles from MBDA, as part of a €2 billion ($2.29 billion) contract inked with France in late 2022.
The contract, which includes a total of 700 missiles, was initially scheduled for delivery in 2026. However, the timeline was accelerated due to rising European security threats, prompting faster production from Eurosam—a joint venture between MBDA and Thales.
In a follow-up move, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom placed an additional joint order for 218 Aster missiles earlier this year.
Missile Types Included
The contract encompasses four Aster variants: Aster 30 B1 NT, Aster 30 B1, Aster 30 B, and Aster 15.
The cutting-edge Aster 30 B1 NT is being deployed with SAMP/T NG systems used by the air and ground forces of France and Italy, as well as on Italy’s Horizon-class frigates.
The Aster 30 B1 is designated for the Italian Air Force, while the Aster 30 B and Aster 15 are allocated to naval platforms operated by France and Italy.
Missile Capabilities
The Aster missile family offers surface-to-air defense with vertical launch capability, covering engagement ranges from 30 to 150 kilometers (19–93 miles).
While the Aster 15 focuses on neutralizing aircraft and incoming missile barrages, the Aster 30 is equipped to intercept ballistic missile threats. Together, they serve as the backbone of the SAMP/T and PAAMS defense systems fielded by France, Italy, and the UK.
