France will integrate the VL MICA NG medium-range air defence missile to complement the Aster 30 Block 1 NT long-range missiles within the SAMP/T NG structure.
OCCAR and EUROSAM have signed a deal regarding the implementation of VL MICA NG missiles to the French configuration fo SAMP/T NG air defence system to cover short to medium range alongside the long-range Aster 30 Block 1 NT.
While Aster 30 Block 1 NT is a highly capable missile thanks to its new seeker and aerodynamic+thruster control, using it at short and medium range is not a cost-effective approach, as all of these advantages do not come for free.
On the other hand, a mono-block missile like VL MICA NG allows short to medium range engagement at lower costs per round and logistical commonality, as MICA NG mainly serves as an air-to-air missile.
VL MICA NG is available in two configurations using IIR and active RF seekers. Thanks to a dual-pulse rocket motor improving endgame kinematics, the new iteration of the VL MICA family offers an extended range up to 40 km (On the same level as the legacy two-stage Aster 15).
Italy has taken a similar approach to France, with the integration of the GRIFO air defence system with its own SAMP/T NG configuration. However, Italy’s GRIFO uses the CAMM-ER medium-range missile, which uses cold launch and has a range of 45 km.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
