A second ASTER B1 New Technology missile (ASTER B1NT), developed by eurosam, was successfully launched at DGA Essais de Missiles test range, in presence of representatives of the three participating states (France, Italy and UK) of the historical trilateral Air Defence FSAF-PAAMS cooperation managed by OCCAR.
After the first successful firing in October 2024, this second firing validated the long range capability of the missile. The ASTER B1NT missile is indeed able to intercept target up to a very longer range (class 150 km) and higher altitude thanks to several improvements implemented in this new generation of the ASTER family. This new successful firing contributes to the qualification of the Long Range capability of the SAMP/T NG system, with the demonstration of the enhanced operational capacities of the new ASTER B1NT missile
which will allow to intercept more difficult aerial and missiles targets in terms of range, manoeuvrability, furtivity or speed.
This firing is a great achievement for the bilateral ASTER B1NT and SAMP/T NG programmes managed by OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) for France and Italy. Thanks to the dedication and professionalism of eurosam, MBDA and Thales teams, OCCAR, and experts from the two Nations – in particular from DGA and Segredifesa / DNA – this success is an important step forward for the development of these new cutting-edge Air Defence assets. These assets will be delivered to the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace (French Air and Space Force), the Esercito Italiano (Italian Army) and the Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force).
The ASTER B1NT missile will also be integrated on other naval programmes managed by eurosam and OCCAR for the two Nations like the Mid-Life Update of Horizon Frigates.
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