British Army Receives 10 Archer Howitzer Systems from Sweden

The British Army has now received all 14 of its Archer howitzer artillery systems after the final 10 arrived from Sweden.

Designed and built by BAE Systems Bofors, the Archers will fill a gap in the Army's 155mm Close Support capability following the U.K.'s transfer of 32 AS90 self-propelled guns to Ukraine.

The U.K. secured an artillery deal with Sweden to acquire 14 Archers as an interim solution until the Remote-Controlled Howitzer arrives. Defence Equipment & Support, the procurement arm of the Ministry of Defence, stated that the 14 guns had been "rapidly delivered" to fulfill the Army's artillery capability needs.

In November, Exercise Dynamic Front will see the Archer systems undergo live-fire tests and assessments. The Archer Artillery System, armed with an automatic-loading 155mm gun, is designed for quick deployment and firing before an enemy can react. The system's ability to move and fire rapidly makes it difficult for enemy forces to detect its location post-firing.

The Archer has a range of 50km when loaded with Excalibur-guided extended-range artillery projectiles and can fire three high-powered rounds within 40 seconds. It is noted for its mobility, deployment speed, and firepower, and is capable of being operated by a three-person crew, although it can function with a single operator if necessary. During testing, the system demonstrated readiness to fire within 14 seconds and the ability to fire its first round after 23 seconds, offering a range that is double that of the AS90.