Swedish Archer 155mm Howitzer Is Now Combat Proven in Ukraine Against Russian Forces.

The 45th Air Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian armed forces has successfully employed the Swedish-donated Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer in combat operations against Russian forces. This marks the first deployment of the Archer howitzer in a real combat operation.
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Ukrainian soldiers use the Swedish-donated ARCHER 155mm self-propelled howitzers to target Russian army positions in Ukraine. (Picture source Social Network)

Pictures circulating on various social networks have provided evidence of Ukrainian soldiers skillfully using the Archer 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer. These pictures vividly capture the moment as the troops engaged Russian positions, showcasing the howitzer's capabilities in a live combat environment.

Sweden has provided Ukraine with eight ARCHER 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers, significantly enhancing the Ukrainian military's artillery strength in its conflict with Russian forces. The Swedish Ministry of Defense confirmed this delivery on November 4, 2023, as a part of Sweden's continued military assistance to Ukraine. This support has amounted to roughly $2 billion since the beginning of the war.

The development of the howitzer began when the Swedish Armed Forces commissioned Bofors (now part of BAE Systems Bofors) in 2003. This initiative, directed by Försvarets Materielverk (FMV), the Swedish defense acquisition agency, aimed to create two demonstrator howitzers. The resulting prototype, the FH77 BW L52 self-propelled howitzer, underwent firing tests in Sweden during 2005 and 2006. Following successful trials, FMV contracted further detailed design work on the Archer in September 2006 and initiated the next phase of development in January 2007. The Swedish Army expressed a need for 24 units of this system, equating to two battalions. In September 2008, the Swedish government gave the green light for the final development and purchase of the Archer artillery system.

The Archer entered service with the Swedish Army in 2013, marking a significant advancement in artillery technology. These attributes make the Archer a powerful tool in artillery warfare, greatly enhancing the operational capabilities of the forces utilizing it.

The Archer is also in service with the Norwegian army. In March 2023, the United Kingdom signed an agreement with Sweden for the acquisition of 14 ARCHER howitzers. The first howitzers were delivered to the British army in September 2023.

To the best of our knowledge, since its commissioning, the Archer howitzer had not been deployed in an operational setting. With its current deployment in the Ukrainian army, it is experiencing its first combat use.

The Archer howitzer, produced by BAE Systems Bofors, is a sophisticated 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery system originally designed for the Swedish Armed Forces. Built upon a modified Volvo A30D all-terrain articulated hauler chassis, it offers exceptional mobility and maneuverability. The system is equipped with a fully automated 155mm/L52 gun and a modular charge system, allowing for the use of various ammunition types. Its automated loading mechanism and high mobility enable quick deployment and relocation, crucial in modern warfare scenarios. The Archer can achieve speeds up to 70 km/h and has an operational range of about 500 km, making it adaptable to diverse combat environments.

In terms of firepower, the Archer boasts impressive capabilities. It has a maximum firing range of around 40 km with standard ammunition and up to 60 km using precision-guided munitions. Its firing rate is notable, capable of discharging up to 8 rounds per minute. Additionally, it can perform Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) firing, where several shells are launched to strike a target simultaneously. The system's advanced fire control and automated laying features ensure precise and efficient targeting.

Swedish ARCHER 155mm self-propelled howitzer in an undisclosed area in Ukraine. (Picture source Social Network)

Defense News January 2024