SAMP/T Mamba System from Italy replaces US-provided Patriot

The US-provided Patriot air-defence system will be replaced by the Italian SAMP/T Mamba tactical system; its installation is currently being completed in the premises of the 46th wing Kuchyna (Bratislava region), Defence Ministry spokeswoman Martina Kakascikova told TASR on Tuesday, adding that it will be operated by as many as 150 members of the Italian armed forces.
"In both cases, these are medium-range air-defence systems, thereby having comparable operational performance," said the spokeswoman, adding that the entire battery rotation process will be carried out without disrupting the continuity of strengthening Slovakia's air defence.
Italian soldiers and equipment have already taken up positions in the premises of the 46th wing Kuchyna, where the official handover of the task between the US-provided Patriot battery and the SAMP/T Mamba battery from Italy took place on Tuesday.
"I see this deployment as a strong and unequivocal proof of the readiness and willingness of NATO member countries to ensure our common defence and security. Regardless of the questions concerning the duration of the operation - the allies clearly declare their support and strengthening of our capabilities for as long as necessary," highlighted interim Defence Minister Jaroslav Nad. (TASR)