Launch Campaign of SAMP/T and STINGER from the Command of the Italian Army’s Anti-Aircraft Artillery

Introduction

The launch campaign of the missile systems SAMP/T and STINGER by the Command of Anti-Aircraft Artillery (COMACA) took place recently at the Salto di Quirra (PISQ) Inter-force polygon in Sardinia.

Missile Launch

Two ASTER 30 missiles from the SAMP/T missile system intercepted and engaged radio-targets Mirach-40, while the STINGER units neutralized some air targets.

AntiDrone Systems

During the activity, antidrone systems (Counter Unmanned Aerial System – C-UAS) integrated in the air defense device were also tested.

Training Activity

The exercise concluded the training course which, throughout recent months, has made it possible to integrate the weapon systems and check the procedures for air space surveillance against modern third-dimension threats.

Communication

In a complex operational context, highly challenging and realistic, tactical and operational communications between the anti-aircraft units, deployed at PISQ, and the Superior Command, deployed in Sabaudia, were guaranteed thanks to a dedicated network of the activity.

Joint Stars 2025

The Launch Campaign was followed by the “Joint Stars 2025”, an exercise which involved anti-aircraft batteries, developed in multiple sessions, simulating attacks of various intensity with the aim of countering air and missile threats, to guarantee protection of the Allied Forces landing area.

The Importance of the Exercise

Joint Stars is the largest and most important joint force exercise of Italian Defence, started in 2017 with the goal of reshaping the main component exercises and training command and control capabilities in a multi-domain inter-force context.

Conclusion

It was a unique opportunity for the Anti-Aircraft Artillery of the Army to test interoperability with the Naval and Air Military and to increase anti-aircraft, anti-missile and against drone defense capabilities in a complex and interconnected training context that reflects current operational scenarios.

Source and photo credit: @Italian Army-Anti-Aircraft Artillery Command

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