Breaking News: Sweden authorizes delivery of 18 additional Archer Howitzers & 5 Arthur Radar Systems to Ukraine.

On March 13, 2025, the Government of Sweden officially authorized the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to procure 18 Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers and five Arthur artillery location radar systems to be donated to Ukraine. This move is part of Sweden's ongoing efforts to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia's invasion, and it falls within the framework of the 18th military support package. The total value of this military donation amounts to approximately €271 million (SEK 3 billion). The delivery of these advanced systems is aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s artillery capabilities, which have been a high priority since Russia's full-scale invasion began.
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The Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, developed by BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, is a highly mobile artillery system designed for rapid deployment and precision fire support. Capable of firing up to 8 rounds per minute with a range of up to 50 kilometers, it enhances battlefield flexibility and survivability through its automated loading system and quick relocation after firing. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Sweden has already made significant contributions to Ukraine's artillery capabilities. In November 2023, Sweden delivered eight Archer 155mm self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine as part of earlier support packages. These systems have been instrumental in enhancing Ukraine's artillery strength. The new authorization will bring the total number of Archer howitzers provided to Ukraine to 26, with 18 more units now being procured as part of the current military assistance package. The delivery of these advanced systems is expected to significantly enhance Ukraine’s artillery strength and provide critical support in the ongoing conflict.

The Archer Howitzer, developed by BAE Systems Bofors (a subsidiary of BAE Systems), is a highly mobile, fully automated 155mm self-propelled artillery system. The Archer is designed to provide effective fire support with rapid deployment and mobility, crucial elements for modern warfare. It is mounted on a Volvo A30D 6x6 chassis, which gives it excellent off-road mobility and allows it to operate in a wide range of terrain, including harsh and rugged battlefield environments.

One of the most notable technical features of the Archer system is its fully automated loading and firing system, which allows it to fire up to 8 rounds per minute. This high rate of fire is crucial for providing sustained fire support during combat. The system can engage targets up to 50 kilometers away, depending on the type of shell used. It is equipped with an onboard computer system that allows the crew to quickly select targets and fire, reducing the time needed between target detection and engagement.

Archer is capable of firing a wide range of 155mm artillery rounds, including guided munitions, which further enhance its precision and effectiveness. The system can also rapidly relocate after firing, making it difficult for adversaries to target it with counter-battery fire. This mobility, combined with its automation, allows the Archer to operate in a hit-and-run mode, making it a formidable asset in both defensive and offensive operations.

In addition to the technical capabilities, the Archer's self-propelled nature means it requires a reduced crew of just three operators—driver, commander, and gunner—compared to traditional towed artillery systems. This further enhances the system's efficiency and reduces the manpower needed for operation.

The Arthur artillery location radar, developed by Swedish Company Saab, is an advanced system designed to detect and track incoming artillery projectiles. (Picture source Wikimedia)

Sweden will also provide five Arthur artillery location radar systems alongside the Archer howitzers. Developed by Saab, the Arthur radar is a cutting-edge system used to detect the trajectory of incoming artillery projectiles and calculate their point of origin. This allows military forces to rapidly identify and neutralize enemy artillery positions before they can cause significant damage. The radar system is highly accurate and effective in real-time combat environments, enabling counter-battery operations to protect friendly forces from artillery fire.

One of the key features of the Arthur radar system is its 360-degree coverage, allowing it to detect artillery shells in flight and compute their source location almost immediately. The system uses a combination of phased-array radar technology and advanced signal processing to track incoming projectiles, such as shells, rockets, and mortars, and determine their origin with high precision. This makes it possible for artillery forces to launch counterstrikes quickly, minimizing the effectiveness of enemy artillery.

The radar can detect a wide variety of artillery systems, from short-range mortars to long-range artillery, and provides real-time targeting data to counter-battery systems. Arthur’s ability to detect artillery projectiles at distances of up to 40 kilometers (depending on the size and type of shell) makes it a powerful tool in modern artillery warfare. It is also equipped with advanced software for data analysis and integration with other battlefield management systems, ensuring that artillery units can respond swiftly and accurately to threats.

Arthur has already proven itself in various conflict zones, with previous donations to Ukraine from Sweden and the United Kingdom enhancing Ukraine's artillery defense capabilities. The Swedish donation of five more Arthur systems to Ukraine will further bolster the country’s ability to combat Russian artillery and improve the overall battlefield intelligence and survivability of Ukrainian forces.

Sweden’s military support package to Ukraine also includes financial assistance aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense industry. Through the Danish initiative, Sweden will contribute funds that could, for example, help Ukraine increase its domestic production of 155mm artillery ammunition, as well as potentially contribute to the production of the Ukrainian Bohdana artillery system. The goal is to improve Ukraine's self-sufficiency in producing critical military hardware while also ensuring a steady supply of ammunition for its artillery systems.

Furthermore, Sweden’s participation in the artillery coalition under the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) will help coordinate international artillery support to Ukraine. The UDCG aims to increase Ukraine’s artillery capabilities and enhance interoperability with NATO forces. By participating in this coalition, Sweden will help Ukraine develop and strengthen its artillery capabilities in line with NATO standards, facilitating smoother collaboration in joint operations.

Deliveries of the Arthur radar systems are expected to begin in 2025, while the Archer howitzers are scheduled to be delivered starting in 2026. Sweden’s contribution to Ukraine is significant, as it not only supplies advanced artillery and radar systems but also helps Ukraine strengthen its defense industry and its long-term military capabilities.

Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson emphasized the critical importance of artillery support for Ukraine, noting that artillery and ammunition have been among the highest priorities for Ukraine's defense since the escalation of the conflict. Through this donation, Sweden continues to play an essential role in strengthening Ukraine’s artillery capabilities, providing critical tools to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty and resist Russian aggression.

Sweden's decision to donate 18 Archer self-propelled howitzers and five Arthur artillery location radar systems marks a significant enhancement of Ukraine's artillery capabilities. Both systems are highly advanced and offer a combination of mobility, precision, and effectiveness, which are essential in modern artillery warfare. With these donations, Sweden is reaffirming its commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression and its broader goal of strengthening Ukraine’s defense and military infrastructure.