Successful Launch of New Aster B1NT Missile

On July 30 in France, a second successful launch of an Aster B1 New Technology (B1NT) missile was carried out at the DGA missile test site in Biscarrosse. This marks a significant step forward in the long-range qualification of the SAMP/T NG air defense system.

The launch took place in the presence of representatives from France, Italy and the United Kingdom. These countries are involved in the tri-national air defense program FSAF-PAAMS, managed by OCCAR, the joint organization for cooperation in armaments.

The ASTER 30 B1NT has proven itself capable of hitting targets at distances of about 150 kilometers and at higher altitudes than the current versions, thanks to improvements made to deal with more complex air and missile threats.

Equipped with a new search sensor that operates in the Ka band and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, the missile is designed to engage short and medium-range ballistic missiles (SRBM and MRBM), cruise missiles and also hypersonic missiles.

This test is part of efforts to expand the operational capabilities of the SAMP/T NG system, which will be integrated by the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace in France and in Italy by the Aeronautica Militare and the Italian Army, including upgrades of ASTER missiles on the ten Orizzonte/Horizon and Type 45 Daring destroyers in service with the Navy, Marine Nationale and Royal Navy.

The SAMP/T NG system consists of a multifunction radar capable of detecting and identifying targets over 350 km away, an engagement system and up to six launchers each with eight missiles ready for launch.

Source: Eurosam

Photo credit: @OCCAR