France Commits to Anti-Ballistic Missile Defense Partnership With Ukraine — SAMP/T NG to Intercept Iskander-M, Kinzhal

On May 16, 2026, France confirmed its readiness to develop anti-ballistic missile defense capabilities jointly with Ukraine, with President Zelensky describing it as 'an important step.' France has committed to delivering eight next-generation SAMP/T NG air defense systems — totaling 48 launchers — equipped with upgraded Aster 30 B1NT missiles. The SAMP/T NG system is specifically designed to intercept Russia's Iskander-M and North Korean-designed KN-23 short-range ballistic missiles, as well as the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic missile — exactly the threats that have most penetrated Ukraine's existing air defense network during Russia's sustained spring 2026 campaign. Ukrainian Air Force spokesman Yurii Ihnat stated: 'Such capability is especially important given the range of ballistic threats currently used by Russia.' Ukrainian personnel have already demonstrated operational proficiency with the existing (non-NG) SAMP/T system in combat. The announcement marks France's continuing ascendancy as a primary European security provider to Ukraine, complementing Germany's Leopard 2 and Patriot contributions, the Netherlands' F-16s, and UK Storm Shadow missiles. Zelensky separately stated that Ukraine aims to produce a homegrown anti-ballistic missile defense system within one year with European support, as Russia's use of advanced ballistic and hypersonic missiles has outpaced the capacity of existing Patriot interceptors.