Ukraine’s air defense capabilities are at risk as the two SAMP/T batteries supplied by Italy and France near depletion of their Aster-30 missiles.
Without additional munitions, these critical systems could soon become inoperable. Ukrainian government has been asking both nations for an urgent resupply, requesting at least fifty missiles to maintain defense operations.
However, logistical and strategic challenges complicate the request. Italy’s missile stockpile is reportedly approaching a critical threshold, with remaining reserves earmarked for national security. France, on the other hand, is believed to have larger inventory, making it more viable source for additional supplies.
On March 14, Rustem Umerov, the Minister Defense of Ukraine, met with the Minister Defense of Italy Guido Crosetto in Rome to discuss the situation. Rustem Umerov is also scheduled to engage with top executives from Eurosam, the joint venture responsible for producing the Aster-30 missiles, composed of MBDA Italy, MBDA France, and Thales.