Italy may suspend the transfer of Aster anti-aircraft missiles for the SAMP/T air defense systems to Ukraine due to concerns about the depletion of its reserves.
Aster 30 is a two-stage solid propellant rocket developed by France and Italy. Range - more than 100 km, speed - up to Mach 4.5, interception height - up to 20 km. The missile is equipped with an active radar feature head and an integrated control system, which ensures high maneuverability when intercepting ballistic and aerodynamic targets.
Why it matters: SAMP/T is the only ground-based European system capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. It has already been deployed in Ukraine. If Aster shipments stop, Kiev will face another shortage of interceptors - following Germany, which previously refused to deliver missiles for Patriot.