BAE Systems’ ARCHER 155mm Mobile Howitzer Shortlisted by Swiss Armed Forces

Rhea-AI Summary

BAE Systems has announced that its ARCHER 155mm mobile howitzer has been shortlisted by the Swiss Federal Office for Defense Procurement in the final competition for Switzerland's future artillery system. The ARCHER is a fully automated system designed for rapid deployment, capable of firing six rounds in under two minutes while ensuring operator safety from its armored cabin. With proven capabilities demonstrated in the Swedish Army, this advanced howitzer can fire a range of munitions at impressive distances, meeting the operational requirements of the Swiss Armed Forces.

Positive

• ARCHER shortlisted for Switzerland's future artillery system competition.
• Fully automated system with rapid deployment capabilities.
• Can fire multiple types of munitions, enhancing operational flexibility.
• Already in service with the Swedish Army, indicating proven reliability.

Negative

• None.

KARLSKOGA, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Swiss government has shortlisted BAE Systems’ ARCHER 155mm mobile howitzer as one of the systems going into the final round of competition for its future artillery system. The Swiss Federal Office for Defense Procurement, known as armasuisse, received multiple proposals submitted by several companies for the competition.

ARCHER is the ultimate “shoot-and-scoot” howitzer and is capable operating in challenging terrains. (Credit: BAE Systems)

ARCHER is a fully automated system purpose-built to keep pace with fast-moving land forces. It is designed for rapid deployment to quickly respond to threats and deliver superior mobility, lethality, and survivability.

Operators control the entire gun system from the safety of ARCHER’s armored cabin. In only 20 seconds, the vehicle can stop and fire its first round. After completion of the fire mission, ARCHER is on the move again within 20 seconds. In less than two minutes, ARCHER can fire six rounds, displace, and move 500 meters, while the crew remains in the armored cabin, making the ARCHER the ultimate shoot-and-scoot system for soldier and platform survivability.

“ARCHER is the most advanced wheeled 155mm howitzer in operation today and meets the requirements of the Swiss Armed Forces,” said Stefan Löfström, director of marketing and sales at BAE Systems Bofors in Karlskoga, Sweden. “Consistent with our long history of implementing industrial cooperation projects around the world, we are working with Swiss industry to establish a project plan to successfully fulfill all Swiss requirements.”

ARCHER can fire the BONUS anti-armor munition up to 35km, conventional munitions up to 40km, and the precision-guided munition Excalibur in excess of 50km. The automated magazines can hold a mix of different ammunition types and modular charges needed to support any mission.

The system is already in service in the Swedish Army with the highest technical and manufacturing readiness levels.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220609006034/en/

Katarina Tolgfors, BAE Systems

Mobile: +46 (0) 72 236 3424

katarina.tolgfors@baesystems.se

www.baesystems.com

@BAESystemsInc

Source: BAE Systems,Inc.

FAQ

What is the significance of BAE Systems' ARCHER being shortlisted?

The shortlisting indicates that BAE Systems' ARCHER is a strong contender for Switzerland's future artillery system, showcasing its capability to meet military requirements.

What are the operational capabilities of the ARCHER mobile howitzer?

ARCHER can fire six rounds in less than two minutes and quickly relocate, enhancing soldier survivability while delivering high mobility and lethality.

Who announced the ARCHER's shortlist for the Swiss artillery system?

BAE Systems announced that ARCHER was shortlisted by the Swiss Federal Office for Defense Procurement.

What types of munitions can the ARCHER howitzer fire?

ARCHER can fire BONUS anti-armor munitions up to 35km, conventional munitions up to 40km, and Excalibur precision-guided munitions over 50km.

Which military currently operates the ARCHER system?

The ARCHER system is currently in service with the Swedish Army.