BAE Systems’ 155mm ARCHER successfully completes U.S. Army’s shoot-off evaluation

Rhea-AI Summary

BAE Systems' 155mm ARCHER wheeled howitzer system successfully completed testing during the U.S. Army's evaluation. This fully automated mobile weapon system provides responsive fire support, firing about 450 rounds at the Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. The tests confirmed compatibility with Army rounds and operational efficiency in diverse conditions. ARCHER can fire within 30 seconds and maneuver quickly, enhancing survivability. Already in service with the Swedish Army, it demonstrates high technical readiness.

Positive

• ARCHER completed successful testing for the U.S. Army, enhancing its prospects for adoption.
• Demonstrated capability to fire about 450 rounds, showcasing operational effectiveness.
• ARCHER is already in service with the Swedish Army, indicating reliability and readiness.

Negative

• None.

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- BAE Systems, Inc.’s 155mm ARCHER wheeled howitzer system successfully completed testing during the U.S. Army’s “shoot off” evaluation, as the service evaluates whether to add a wheeled capability to its arsenal. ARCHER is a fully automated mobile weapon system that provides highly responsive and versatile fire support to troops in combat.

ARCHER can fire at extended ranges and has successfully completed demonstrations for the U.S. Army at the Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Ariz. (Photo: BAE Systems)

ARCHER fired about 450 rounds, including six to 12 round bursts, and up to as many as eight rounds per minute, during various testing in different conditions at the Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Ariz. over the summer evaluation. The shoot off included charge compatibility with Army rounds, soldier training and testing, mobility, performance of Army’s identified requirements, studying integrated digital fire control, and maintenance evaluation.

“We are confident ARCHER meets the need for new wheeled artillery system with unprecedented shoot and scoot capability so soldiers can avoid counterfire,” said Mark Signorelli, vice president of business development at BAE Systems. “We look forward to additional opportunities to demonstrate the full breadth of ARCHER’s capabilities to the Army.”

ARCHER can initiate fire within 30 seconds of receiving an order and depart in the same amount of time, giving it superior survivability by minimizing the enemy’s ability to return fire.

ARCHER is already in service the Swedish Army with the highest technical and manufacturing readiness levels. The testing at temperatures reaching 120 degrees (50 degrees Celsius) in Arizona demonstrated ARCHER can operate effectively in high temperatures as well as in arctic conditions typically experienced in northern Sweden.

Soldiers can operate and fire ARCHER while remaining in the armored cabin through its fully automated fire and ammunition loading system. Its magazine carries 21 rounds and can fire all of them in less than three minutes. ARCHER can fire the precision BONUS anti-armor munition up to 35 km, conventional munitions up to 40 km, and currently fielded precision-guided munitions like Excalibur in excess of 50 km. BONUS and Excalibur are currently in the U.S. Army’s inventory.

ARCHER is on display at BAE Systems’ booth during the Association of the United States Army exhibition in Washington, D.C. Oct. 11-13 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211011005080/en/

Mike McCarthy

Mobile: +001 (571) 213-0182

Mike.McCarthy2@baesystems.com

www.baesystems.com/US

@BAESystemsInc

Source: BAE Systems, Inc.

FAQ

What is the significance of BAE Systems' ARCHER completion of U.S. Army testing?

The completion of testing positions the ARCHER system as a potential choice for the U.S. Army's wheeled artillery needs.

How many rounds did the ARCHER system fire during testing?

The ARCHER system fired about 450 rounds during its testing at the Yuma Proving Ground.

What capabilities does the ARCHER system provide?

ARCHER provides rapid fire support, able to initiate fire within 30 seconds of an order.

Where is the ARCHER system currently in use?

ARCHER is currently in service with the Swedish Army, showcasing its operational reliability.

When did the U.S. Army testing for ARCHER take place?

The U.S. Army testing for ARCHER took place over the summer evaluation at the Yuma Proving Ground.