Ignat stated that the SAMP/T systems currently deployed in Ukraine have not yet been used against ballistic missiles
Yuriy Ignat, Head of Communications for the Ukrainian Air Force, told Radio NV in an interview that SAMP/T systems are already operational in Ukraine and have previously been used against Russian aircraft.
“SAMP/T has been in Ukraine for a long time and has even shot down Russian aircraft. But we must hope for the version that can protect us from ballistic missiles today. The version of SAMP/T that we have has not yet been used against ballistic missiles,” Ignat stated.
He explained that the ability to intercept ballistic missiles depends on the system’s technical specifications and the radar’s performance.
According to Ignat, the radar must bring the anti-missile and the ballistic target together at a single point at high speed.
“The radar must track the interceptor and the ballistic missile to a single point. This point is in the sky, and all this happens at breakneck speeds. This is a technology that few manufacturers in the world have achieved, including the Patriot systems,” said the Air Force spokesperson.
He added that Ukraine is awaiting the delivery of new-generation French systems, though the production of such weaponry takes time.
“Let’s hope that these French systems will also enter service; the relevant documents have already been signed confirming that France will supply them. The only thing is that the process of manufacturing such high-tech equipment is not a quick one. This is a long-term prospect, or even a medium-term one,” noted Ignat.
In December 2025, it was reported that France had decided to transfer the first upgraded SAMP/T NG system to Ukraine in 2026.
French Aid to Ukraine did not specify the number of systems, but “Military” reported on eight systems, each of which is to include six launchers.
In November, Defense Express reported that the modernised SAMP/T systems would receive a new Ground Fire 300 radar station instead of Arabel.
According to the publication, Arabel provided target detection at ranges of up to 80 kilometres and could track up to 130 targets. Ground Fire 300 will have a range of up to 400 kilometres and the ability to track up to 1,000 targets.
On 15 March 2026, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine would test new SAMP/T systems for intercepting ballistic missiles in 2026.
