In a bold move to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, Italy is gearing up to provide a second SAMP/T air defense system. This comes as a much-needed response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's plea for additional defenses to fend off Russian missile attacks.
Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, is echoing Zelensky's call. He is urging EU member states to stand together and equip Ukraine with the necessary defense capabilities. Corresponding to the call, Germany took the lead, launching an initiative requesting NATO and EU countries to reinforce Ukraine's air defense.
Germany assured to supply a third Patriot missile battery to Ukraine. Spain, too, has shown readiness to take similar action. It's worth noting that France and Italy had already collaborated last year to deliver a SAMP/T system to Ukrainian forces. The provision comprised the Arabel radar and Aster 30 missiles from France, with Italy chipping in the launchers.
France and Italy’s Aid to Ukraine
France, for its part, has indicated that it cannot commit more than what it has already contributed to Ukraine, save for the potential supply of additional Aster 30 missiles. On the other hand, Italy seems to be in a position to donate another SAMP/T system from its 4th anti-aircraft artillery regiment “Peschiera.”
The SAMP/T earmarked for Kiev has a history of being deployed in Slovakia under NATO. However, Italy's generous assistance does have its limitations. The Italian army is engaged with the air coverage of the imminent G7 summit and has another system set up in Kuwait.
Future Aid to Ukraine
By mid-June, further details of Italy's aid to Ukraine are expected to be refined and ratified by the Italian Parliament. In maintaining a discreet profile, the Italian government has yet to openly discuss the specificities of the aid. What has been made known is the inclusion of Storm Shadow / SCALP cruise missiles in the aid package.