Rome may temporarily halt Aster missile transfers to Ukraine due to ammunition shortage

Rome assesses risks regarding ammunition supply

The Italian side is considering the option of temporarily suspending the transfer of Aster interceptor missiles to Ukraine, which are intended for SAMP/T surface-to-air missile systems. The main reason for such a decision is the depletion of its own weapons stockpiles and insufficiently rapid rates of production of new ammunition.

According to the ANSA news agency, the government in Rome is analysing potential risks to further deliveries, given the need to protect its own national security. Since production capacities do not allow for the replenishment of arsenals sufficiently promptly, Italy faces the necessity of maintaining the required level of its own protection.

Defence minister's statement

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto emphasised that a possible pause in the transfer of specific types of missiles is not a signal of the cessation of general military support for Kyiv.

According to the head of the defence department, the 13th classified aid package is being prepared. It will provide components for the maintenance of SAMP/T batteries, as well as a large batch of generators.