French Ground Fire 300 radar: a new stage in SAMP/T NG missile defense

 

Ground Fire 300 Radar

The French company Thales has completed factory tests of the Ground Fire 300 MRI radar, which will become a key element of the updated air and missile defense (air defense) system./PRO) SAMP/T NG. This step is intended to strengthen European capabilities by offering protection against modern ballistic and aerodynamic threats.  

Technological breakthrough  

The Ground Fire 300 is an active phased array antenna (AESA) based on gallium nitride (GaN), providing 360—degree coverage in azimuth and 90-degree coverage in the angular plane. The radar is capable of detecting targets at a range of up to 400 km, making it one of the longest-range in its class. Its high power and data processing algorithms make it possible to effectively deal with ballistic missiles, including hypersonic ones, as well as low-profile aerial targets.  

Integration with SAMP/T NG  

The SAMP/T NG system, developed by the Eurosam consortium, combines Thales Ground Fire 300 radars and latest generation Aster missiles. Compared to previous versions, the new system demonstrates increased resistance to interference and the ability to simultaneously track up to hundreds of targets. As noted in the Thales materials, the GF300 provides "hemispherical protection," making the system critically important for covering strategic facilities and troops.  

Development context  

The project aims to overcome the limitations of legacy systems such as the American Patriot. In contrast, SAMP/T NG focuses on mobility and integration with European networks. France has already ordered seven additional SAMP/T NG divisions with GF300 radars, which will expand the air defense coverage area./ABOUT in Europe.  

International cooperation 

Although the system was created for the French Air Force, its potential attracts other partners. For example, Italy has chosen a similar SAMP/T NG configuration with the Kronos Grand Mobile radar, which highlights the flexibility of the platform. Turkey also showed interest in this technology as part of the T-Loramids tender, although the contract was suspended due to geopolitical differences.