Sweden Delivers To Ukraine Eight Archer 155 mm Howitzers in Fight Against Russian Forces.

On November 4, 2023, the Swedish Ministry of Defense confirmed the deployment of eight Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers on the battlefield, marking a significant enhancement in the artillery power against Russian troops. This deployment is a part of Sweden's steadfast military support to Ukraine, which has been quantified at approximately $2 billion since the onset of the war.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

A Swedish Armed Forces highly mobile Archer Artillery System in position to fire on November 15, 2021, at Camp Atterbury, United States. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

The Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer stands out as a marvel of military engineering, designed for rapid response and high mobility. Mounted on a robust 6x6 Volvo A30D all-terrain vehicle, the Archer can be swiftly maneuvered across various landscapes, enabling forces to reposition quickly to evade enemy counterattacks. Its automated loading system is capable of delivering firepower within 30 seconds of command, a critical feature that allows for the "shoot and scoot" tactic—firing and immediately moving to a new location to avoid retaliatory strikes. The system's reach is formidable, with the ability to hit targets up to 40 kilometers away using standard ammunition and extending its range beyond 50 kilometers with precision-guided munitions.

Precision is another hallmark of the Archer, with advanced navigation and fire control systems ensuring accurate strikes, thereby reducing collateral damage and enhancing the effectiveness of each mission. Despite its sophisticated technology, the Archer requires a relatively small crew to operate, thanks to its high level of automation. This efficiency in manpower is invaluable in combat situations where resources are at a premium.

The combat capabilities of the Archer howitzer are transformative on the battlefield. Its rapid rate of fire—capable of dispatching six rounds per minute—coupled with its ability to quickly relocate post-engagement, provides a tactical advantage, allowing for sustained operations with minimal exposure to enemy fire. The system's adaptability is further augmented by its compliance with NATO standards, which ensures seamless integration into the existing military framework.

Delving deeper into the Archer's technical specifications, the gun system is an FH77BW L52 piece, which is a further development of the well-proven FH77B 155mm field howitzer. The L52 denotes the length of the gun barrel, which is 52 calibers (52 times the bore diameter), providing a longer range and greater accuracy compared to traditional howitzers. The Archer's fully automated magazine carries 21 rounds and can handle both standard and smart munitions, allowing for a variety of tactical options. The system is also equipped with a Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) capability, which enables it to fire several rounds in such a way that all the shells arrive at the target at the same time, for a devastating effect.

Sweden's commitment to Ukraine's military fortification was further underscored by the announcement of an additional aid package in January 2023, worth 4.3 billion Swedish krona ($419 million), followed by a $200 million package in August 2023, predominantly aimed at reinforcing Ukraine's artillery ammunition reserves. The introduction of the Archer howitzers into Ukraine's arsenal is a game-changer, offering a potent combination of agility, firepower, and precision that could shift the tactical balance in the region. This support from Sweden not only signifies a strong political message but also equips Ukraine with advanced technological tools essential for its continued fight against Russian forces. 

More information about the Archer at this link. 

Defense News November 2023