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France, Italy, and the United Kingdom have confirmed a joint order for 218 additional Aster missiles while expediting the delivery of previously ordered stock, the three nations announced on Friday. The move comes over heightened concerns over European defence capabilities following a policy shift from the United States.
European governments have been under pressure to strengthen their military readiness after US President Donald Trump questioned Washington’s longstanding commitment to NATO.
The joint statement emphasised the countries’ “unwavering commitment” to bolstering their air defence systems. French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu added that 134 missiles ordered in December 2022 would now be delivered more quickly, starting in 2025.
Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles, manufactured by the European defence company MBDA, are designed for both naval and land-based air defence systems. The latest order includes Aster 30 B1 missiles, set to enter service next year, which will be integrated into the future French and Italian SAMP/T defence systems as well as naval vessels from all three countries.
These missiles can engage targets at altitudes of up to 2,500 metres (8,200 feet) and have a range of 150 kilometres (93 miles). They are capable of intercepting aircraft, medium-range ballistic missiles, and hypersonic weapons travelling at over five times the speed of sound.
Each Aster 30 missile is estimated to cost more than €2 million ($2.1 million), according to the French Institute of International Relations. The order also includes new Aster 15 missiles specifically for the French Navy.
