Developed by Thales and MBDA of France in collaboration with Italy, the SAMP/T NG missile is being seen a challenger for US Patriot Surface-to-Air Missile.
Bad news for US’s Donald Trump: For several decades, the United States of America has dominated the global market for missile defense systems with its defence production and innovation capabilities. The defence equipment of USA including the Patriot Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system are widely deployed by NATO allies and strategic partners across the world due to their defence capabilities. However, there is an European country which has started to compete with US’s defence capabilities. At first, it challenged US’ F-35 fighters aircrafts with Rafael jets and now, it is planning to challenge the Patriot Surface-to-Air Missile with its SAMP/T NG missile system.
Why should Donald Trump be worried?
In the latest development, France has entered the global race to dominate air defense technology by unveiling its advanced SAMP/T NG missile system. Seen as a direct challenge to the American Patriot system, much like the earlier F-35 fighter jet vs Rafale jet debate in the fighter jet segment, the missile is seen as the biggest challenges for US led by President Donald Trump.
Why is France’s SAMP/T NG missile system dangerous?
The SAMP/T NG missile of France has been developed by Thales and MBDA in collaboration with Italy. Designed to intercept ballistic missiles, drones, the fighter jets has been developed with greater accuracy and speed. With longer range, faster deployment, and modern radar tech, it could attract NATO countries looking for alternatives amid rising global tensions.
US plans to supply Patriot missiles to Ukraine
Meanwhile, in a significant test for the US Patriot air defence missiles, US President Donald Trump has said that the United States will send the missiles to Ukraine to help bolster the country’s defences against Russian attacks.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Sunday (local time), US President Trump explained that the European Union would purchase the missiles from the United States and then deliver them to Ukraine.
(With inputs from agencies)