Complexity and delays plague key missile production
The SAMP/T anti-aircraft system is among the most advanced in the world. It has already demonstrated its effectiveness in Ukraine; however, the production cycle of the Aster family missiles used in the system is notably complex. Ukrainians, among others, have observed the irrational complexity and extended production time.
SAMP/T is one of the most advanced anti-aircraft systems globally. It was developed based on the sea-air anti-aircraft system designed for French and Italian warships, which fires Aster family missiles. SAMP/T is its land version.
This system is set to create Italy's missile defence shield, has also been purchased by Singapore, and has demonstrated its effectiveness in combat conditions after being delivered to Ukraine—the probability of destroying a target with a single missile is as high as 0.9.
Although technically both the SAMP/T system and the Aster family missiles used within it are at the forefront globally, the production process of Aster missiles presents a significant challenge, limiting the potential for mass production.
Consequently, there is a shortage of missiles for one of the key, highly effective anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems. This issue is highlighted by the Ukrainian service Defence Express.
How long does it take to build an Aster missile?
Building one Aster missile can take up to 40 months, although, of course—due to serial production—many more missiles are produced within that period.
The lengthy production time is because the Aster missile comprises about 10,000 parts, needing a very long journey during assembly. Different stages of production are carried out in facilities in Italy and France, and the missile—before becoming operational—is transported multiple times across the Alps.
The manufacturer, Eurosam, recognises this issue and has been working to reduce the production time of a single missile.
The problem with production dispersion
This is complex due to the dispersed ownership—Eurosam is owned by the Thales and MBDA groups, where Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo hold stakes. Consequently, shareholders pressure maintaining the current division of labour to ensure profits and employment in individual facilities.
Consolidating production and increasing efficiency is challenging in these conditions.
Despite this, Eurosam can boast limited success—less than anticipated. According to Defence Express, through investments in new production equipment, increased employment, and weekend work, the assembly time for one Aster missile has been reduced from over three years to about two years.
