Italy is poised to announce a new package of military aid to Ukraine ahead of the Group of Seven (G7) summit scheduled for June 13, according to reports from La Repubblica.
Sources within the executive branch indicate that Italy's ninth aid package will include SAMP/T, an effective air defense system essential for protecting the Ukrainian capital and major urban centers.
The system selected for supply by Rome is the same one long deployed by Slovakia, highlighting its reliability and capability.
Two installations will safeguard Italy, notably in anticipation of the G7 summit in Borgo Egnazia. One will remain on standby for the country's defense. A fourth installation is stationed in Kuwait and will remain there for the foreseeable future.
SAMP/T
SAMP/T, also known as Mamba, is a medium-range ground-based air defense missile system developed by the Franco-Italian consortium Eurosam.
The system is designed to protect battlefields and critical tactical assets such as airports and seaports from modern and emerging aerial threats, including cruise missiles, manned and unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as short-range ballistic missiles (up to 600 km).
Italy's assistance to Ukraine
Italy has provided significant support to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022. Rome has supplied Kyiv with various armaments, including anti-aircraft missiles, anti-tank missiles, machine guns, mortars, and armored vehicles.
In January of this year, the Italian parliament approved the extension of military aid to Ukraine until 2024.
In late February 2024, Italy and Ukraine signed a security cooperation agreement, which includes provisions for economic, diplomatic, and military assistance.