Italian Army Receives First SAMP/T NG and GRIFO Air Defense Systems

January 26, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1769438490503-2174

Italy Takes Delivery of Advanced Air Defense Capabilities Amid Growing Threats

Italy has taken delivery of its first SAMP/T New Generation (NG) and GRIFO surface-to-air missile systems, marking an important step in the country’s air defense modernization. The handover took place on January 22, 2026, at the Santa Barbara barracks in Sabaudia, home to the Army Air Defence Artillery Command (COMACA). SAMP/T NG is based on the Aster 30 B1NT interceptor with an engagement envelope of over 150 kilometers, while GRIFO adds a SHORAD layer built around MBDA’s CAMM-ER missile for low-altitude and fast-reaction threats. This delivery may signal Italy’s growing confidence in its air defense capabilities, which could have implications for the country’s NATO membership.

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Key Takeaways

Italy has received its first SAMP/T New Generation (NG) and GRIFO surface-to-air missile systems.
The handover took place on January 22, 2026, at the Santa Barbara barracks in Sabaudia.
Both systems are intended to establish a layered air defense posture combining medium-range and short-range interceptors.
SAMP/T NG is based on the Aster 30 B1NT interceptor with an engagement envelope of over 150 kilometers.
GRIFO adds a SHORAD layer built around MBDA’s CAMM-ER missile for low-altitude and fast-reaction threats.

MBDA Italy Thales Leonardo Rheinmetall

Strategic Implications

This delivery may indicate Italy’s growing concern about aerial threats following its NATO membership. The integration of SAMP/T NG and GRIFO could enhance the country’s strategic autonomy in air defense. The French version of SAMP/T NG is also progressing, suggesting a Franco-Italian cooperation that could benefit other European countries.