British Army's new hit-tech howitzer is locked, loaded and ready for action
Archer 155m artilery used for the first time during NATO's Exercise Hedgehog in Estonia
The British Army has made significant strides in its artillery modernisation programme, unveiling the new Archer 155m wheeled self-propelled howitzers during a NATO exercise in Estonia.
The first operational deployment was announced during Exercise Hedgehog, a large-scale multinational drill taking place this month, highlighting the UK's increasing commitment to the eastern flank and the swift integration of advanced artillery into its frontline service.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) confirmed the system's participation through a series of images showing the armed forces utilising it in live training scenarios.
Archer represents a massive leap forward from the AS90, which has been the mainstay of British artillery for decades. First introduced in the early 1990s, it underwent several upgrades over the years but eventually reached its technological and operational limits.
The tracked chassis was not only slow, making it less suitable for the rapid developments required by modern expeditionary and NATO-aligned operations, but the manually loaded gun system and outdated fire control technology also fell behind, reports the Express.
The need for a new and 'better' system was hastened by the UK's decision to donate 32 units to Ukraine in 2023, supporting them in their conflict with Russia - this left a growing gap in the British Army's self-propelled artillery capabilities.
This led to the introduction of the Archer systems, supplied by Sweden's BAE Systems Bofors, offering a more mature, field-tested and ready-to-deploy alternative that aligns with NATO interoperability standards.
The system represents next-generation technology designed for mobility, automation and survivability, mounted on a 6x6 Volvo chassis featuring a fully automated 155mm L52 gun-howitzer.
The Archer can engage targets within a mere 30 seconds of receiving a fire order, deliver six rounds in less than a minute, and has the flexibility to swiftly relocate to evade enemy fire.
Moreover, Archers can fire precision-guided munitions, such as the M982 Excalibur, capable of hitting targets over 50km away - a significant 20km improvement on the older and less effective AS90.
Its armoured cabin allows the entire operation of the weapon to be conducted from within, safeguarding the crew whether they are targeting or firing. It also features automated loading and firing systems, reducing the physical workload and manpower needed to operate.
The decision to switch to the Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer sees the UK join other NATO nations like Sweden and Norway who have also adopted the system.
As Europe contends with an ever-changing security landscape, the UK's investment in systems like Archer highlights its firm commitment to maintaining a modern, efficient, and agile military force prepared to navigate the complexities of 21st Century conflict.
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