Europe's New Air Defence System: A Challenge to US Hegemony

European armies are considering purchasing a new joint air defence system, developed by France and Italy, as a viable alternative to the US-made Patriot system. This move comes as a response to the changing geopolitical landscape, with many countries questioning the reliability of the US security umbrella. The new system, called SAMP-T NG, is expected to have better commercial prospects than its predecessor, which failed to gain traction due to its performance issues and inability to intercept Russian ballistic missiles.

Key Takeaways:

• The SAMP-T NG is a new-generation surface-to-air weapon system developed by MBDA, Thales, and Leonardo, with the first deliveries expected next year.
• The system uses precise radars to target and fire long-range missiles to shoot down aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, at a distance of over 150km.
• The SAMP-T NG can fire up to 48 Aster missiles, manufactured by MBDA and battle-tested in Yemen and Ukraine.
• Backers of the SAMP-T NG claim that it matches the Patriot in performance and is cheaper to operate, requiring less manpower and being easier to transport.
• The French and Italian armies will be the first customers, with Denmark and Belgium evaluating the SAMP-T NG versus the Patriot.
• The decision to buy the Patriot or SAMP-T is more political than qualitative, with many European countries buying American in an implicit bargain for access to US intelligence and surveillance networks.
• The US does play an active role in cajoling purchases from European countries, which are all too aware of the importance of having access to America's extensive intelligence and surveillance networks.
• Europe remains divided on the strategy for air defences, with some countries joining the Sky Shield buying club for Patriot and Israeli and German systems.

Statistics:

• 25 countries have joined the Sky Shield buying club for Patriot and Israeli and German air defence systems, although only a few have put in orders.
• SAMP-T NG can fire up to 48 Aster missiles, which are manufactured by MBDA and battle-tested in Yemen and Ukraine.
• 4 times: the estimated boost needed by NATO in its systems.
• $150km: the distance at which the SAMP-T NG can target and fire long-range missiles.

Sources:

• The Financial Times
• Reuters
• International Institute for Strategic Studies
• Royal United Services Institute
• Euro News
• European Commission
• EU Observer