Denmark's crucial air defense choice: SAMP/T NG vs. Patriot
Denmark is faced with choosing an air defense system between the SAMP/T NG and the Patriot. This decision is crucial for the country's safety, and the statements by the American president regarding Greenland add controversy.
As the portal Zone Militarie reports, Denmark is working intensively to strengthen its air defense. The country is considering purchasing the SAMP/T NG or the Patriot system as part of this process. This choice is pivotal for ensuring national security, especially in current geopolitical tensions.
Denmark has joined the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), a project to create a multi-layered air defense system in Europe. As part of this project, Denmark must decide on an air defense system. The options are limited to the French-Italian SAMP/T NG system and the American Patriot.
The Danish Defense Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) requires the selected system to be interoperable within NATO, have secure supply chains, demonstrate operational efficiency, and ensure timely deliveries. A decision is expected by mid-2025.
So far, most medium-range air defense system tenders have been won by the American Patriot due partly to better delivery times and missile availability compared to the SAMP/T. However, the Danes must now consider the instability of foreign policy associated with Donald Trump's administration when dealing with the American competitor.
SAMP/T — a European competitor to the Patriot
The Patriot and SAMP/T systems can shoot down aircraft over 62 miles and intercept ballistic missiles approximately 25 miles and 19 miles from the launcher. However, the Patriot is much more popular than the SAMP/T and is said to have better capabilities against ballistic missiles, thanks to the PAC-3 MSE missiles.
On the other hand, the SAMP/T is a more compact system that already has a full 360-degree radar. For Patriot systems, however, this capability is still a few years away from completing tests and entering production with the LTAMDS radar.
The Danes' decision will determine the equipment they use and the foreign partner with whom they align for the next few decades. Additionally, opting for the European system could serve as a tangible confirmation of the calls for greater European independence from the US in security matters.
