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Russia Strikes Swedish Archer Self-Propelled Howitzer Operated by Ukrainian Forces.
Russian forces recently reportedly disabled an Archer self-propelled howitzer provided by Sweden to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Video footage circulated on social media shows this damage, though the system is only partially disabled.
The video displays a Swedish-origin Archer with visible damage. (Picture source: Social Media)
Footage from the Dambiev Telegram channel displays a Swedish-origin Archer with visible damage, particularly to its automatic loading module, which has rendered it temporarily inoperative and in need of repairs. However, the vehicle is far from destroyed, and Ukrainian mechanics will likely manage to repair it and return it to active duty. Nonetheless, the repair process could be time-intensive, presenting a challenge for Ukrainian technicians.
To support the deployment and maintenance of the Archer self-propelled howitzers in Ukraine, Sweden has implemented several strategies to ensure their functionality in combat conditions. The Swedish Ministry of Defense, which facilitated the transfer of these systems to Ukraine, included maintenance and support provisions in its overall military aid package. Valued at around $2 billion, this aid program includes technical training for Ukrainian personnel to ensure the effective operation and maintenance of these advanced artillery systems.
The Archer systems, equipped with automated firing and digital targeting features, require specific expertise to fully exploit their accuracy and efficiency. Sweden ensured that Ukrainian teams, notably within the 45th Separate Artillery Brigade, received operational training before deployment. Additionally, the Swedish government has considered various logistical and repair support options to meet the advanced maintenance needs of these units in the combat zone. While complete maintenance is challenging on the field, Sweden’s training and resources aim to optimize the operational lifespan of these systems by emphasizing remote support and modular repairs where possible to ensure continued usage on the battlefield.
The Archer is a self-propelled artillery system designed in Sweden. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The Ukrainian Armed Forces received eight of these advanced artillery units from Sweden, which were deployed with the 45th Separate Artillery Brigade. This recent damage adds to previous reports from March indicating that another unit from this batch had also been destroyed.
The Archer is a self-propelled artillery system designed to offer mobile firepower resilient to battlefield conditions. Armed with a 155-mm gun and a secondary machine gun of either 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm, the Archer can engage long-range targets while ensuring close defense. Its armored cab provides effective protection against small-arms fire and shrapnel, enhancing crew safety in hostile environments.
Designed by Sweden, the Archer is used by the armed forces of Finland, Sweden, and Ukraine. Weighing approximately 30,000 kg, it is mounted on a mobile chassis allowing rapid maneuverability, with a top speed of 70 km/h. Its operational range spans 400 to 500 km, enabling tactical maneuvers without frequent refueling needs.
The Archer also integrates advanced technologies, including GPS navigation, NBC (nuclear, biological, and chemical) threat protection, as well as day and night driving vision systems. Its computerized fire control system optimizes strike precision, ensuring high efficiency in operation. Designed for a crew of three, the Archer measures 14.1 meters in length, 3 meters in width, and 4 meters in height, dimensions that reflect its robustness and battlefield capabilities.
While the Archer artillery system has proven its effectiveness in various environments, the complex context in Ukraine makes maintaining and repairing such advanced equipment a significant logistical challenge.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces received eight Archer from Sweden. (Picture source: Army Recognition)