France plans to deliver Ukraine its first next-generation SAMP/T NG air defense system in 2026 under a long-term bilateral defense agreement, according to public statements from French officials and the system’s manufacturer, as reported by French Aid to Ukraine on X.
Air defense remains essential for Ukraine amid continued Russian missile and drone attacks targeting cities, infrastructure, and military sites. Sustained pressure on existing defenses has made the expansion and reinforcement of air defense capacity a persistent operational requirement.
Thales confirms system enters service
The expected timeline follows recent confirmation by Thales that the SAMP/T NG has formally entered service with the French and Italian armed forces, according to Ukrainian Defense portal Militarnyi.
The company said initial deliveries of the new system are scheduled for 2026, after the French version completed its first qualification firing tests in December 2025.
French President Emmanuel Macron has previously stated that Ukraine would be the first operational deployment site for the SAMP/T NG once development is complete. His remarks have been cited by observers tracking French military assistance as indicating that Ukrainian forces will receive the system in the same year deliveries begin.
48 launchers under 10-year deal
Ukraine is reportedly set to receive eight SAMP/T NG systems in total under the agreement signed in November. Each system consists of six launchers, giving Ukraine’s Air Force a planned inventory of 48 launchers once all deliveries are completed.
The defense pact between Kyiv and Paris is designed to run for ten years and extends beyond air defense. It also covers joint work on drones, interceptors, and guided aerial munitions, combining near-term deliveries with longer-term industrial cooperation.
The current SAMP/T remains a central element of air defense in both France and Italy. As part of the transition to the next-generation variant, Thales announced in October that serial production had begun for the Ground Fire multifunctional radar used in the SAMP/T NG system.
