Turning Point for Ukraine – Will Receive First Samp/T NG and Produce with Italy and France

KIEV – President Volodymyr Zelensky announces a strategic agreement with Paris and Rome: strengthening of the air defense system and the start of joint production of advanced missiles. A significant turning point in military support for Ukraine comes directly from President Volodymyr Zelensky. On the sidelines of his participation in the July 14 celebrations in Paris and the meeting of the “Willing”, the Ukrainian leader announced an ambitious plan that sees Italy and France at the forefront for the technological and military enhancement of Kiev.

Samp/T NG: Kiev Will Be the First to Receive the New Technology

The most noteworthy news concerns the Samp/T NG (New Generation) air defense system. Zelensky confirmed via social media that Ukraine will be the first country to receive these enhanced versions, the result of Franco-Italian technological excellence. The commitment also includes an acceleration in the supply of Aster 30 missiles, expected by October of this year, to ensure more effective coverage against aerial threats.

Joint Production and Industrial Autonomy

The agreement marks a crucial step: it will no longer be just about supplies, but about industrial cooperation. According to Zelensky, Ukraine will obtain licenses to produce high-tech weapons in collaboration with European partners, including:

• Scalp Missiles
• AASM Bombs
• Aster 30 Missiles

This synergy aims to gradually make Kiev more autonomous in the supply of critical assets, in a shared strategy defined by the president as “a step that reflects true French leadership in defense cooperation, in the interest of all Europe”.

Strengthening Air Defense and Aviation

In addition to air defense systems, which also include the delivery of two more Samp/T batteries by the end of the year and collaboration on the Freyja anti-ballistic program, Ukraine aims to renew its aviation.

The agreement indeed provides for:

1. The acquisition of 16 Rafale fighters, complete with an armament package.
2. The immediate start of training for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance personnel in France, expected by 2026.

With these moves, the European bloc further strengthens support for Kiev, focusing on a deep and lasting technological integration between the Ukrainian defense industry and the Western one.