Archer, RCH 155, and AGM: Switzerland Prepares Future of Its Artillery.

The Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement (Armasuisse) has completed the practical testing phase of three shortlisted artillery systems as part of its evaluation for replacing current systems. These tests, conducted between January 2023 and June 2024, were carried out in collaboration with the defense industry and the Swiss Armed Forces, both in Switzerland and abroad. The goal was to verify whether the systems meet Switzerland's military requirements for a new artillery platform. The results will be analyzed in the coming months and compiled into an evaluation report that will inform the final decision on which system to acquire. 
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The three systems evaluated include the Archer self-propelled howitzer from BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, mounted on a Rheinmetall HX truck platform, and two systems from KNDS Germany: the RCH 155 with a Boxer carrier platform and the AGM Artillery Gun Module mounted on a Piranha carrier platform (Picture source: Armasuisse)

The three systems evaluated include the Archer self-propelled howitzer from BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, mounted on a Rheinmetall HX truck platform, and two systems from KNDS Germany: the RCH 155 with a Boxer carrier platform and the AGM Artillery Gun Module mounted on a Piranha carrier platform. These systems were selected after a preliminary evaluation, and the tests aimed to verify whether they meet the technical and operational goals of the project, particularly in terms of range, precision, and mobility. These capabilities are essential for ensuring that the Swiss Armed Forces maintain their indirect fire capability at medium operational distances.

The Archer self-propelled howitzer, produced by BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, is mounted on a Rheinmetall HX truck platform. First entering service in the early 2010s, the Archer is designed for high mobility and rapid fire capabilities, with a 155mm cannon capable of firing shells up to 50 km using extended-range ammunition. It can fire up to eight rounds per minute and reposition quickly after each salvo. The Archer is primarily used by the Swedish Armed Forces, with additional systems ordered by Norway.

The RCH 155, produced by KNDS (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter) in Germany, is mounted on the Boxer armored transport platform. It is designed to offer high mobility combined with substantial firepower, featuring a 155mm cannon capable of precise long-range firing, reaching up to 40 km. The Boxer platform’s modularity allows it to adapt to various combat environments, and its advanced armor provides protection against ballistic threats and explosions. Germany and the Netherlands already use the Boxer platform for other roles, and the RCH 155 is under evaluation to expand its user base.

The AGM Artillery Gun Module, also developed by KNDS, is mounted on a Piranha transport platform from General Dynamics. It is designed to provide 155mm firepower from a lighter and more mobile platform, distinguished by its ability to be integrated onto multiple carrier vehicles. With a range similar to other modern systems, it combines precision and rapid firing capability. The AGM is particularly appealing to countries looking to modernize their artillery with modular, lightweight systems. It is currently undergoing testing for potential adoption by European armed forces.

The evaluations included logistical tests, technical firing trials, mobility assessments, and troop trials with each prototype (Picture source: Armasuisse)

The evaluations included logistical tests, technical firing trials, mobility assessments, and troop trials with each prototype. The focus was on assessing the systems' ability to meet the Swiss Army's operational goals, including their adaptability to a militia-based army, and verifying the performance promised by the manufacturers. In parallel with the practical tests, official requests for offers have been submitted, covering contractual aspects, business terms, and life cycle costs. These offers, combined with the evaluation report, will form the basis for selecting the final system. Armasuisse plans to request procurement in one of the upcoming Armed Forces Dispatches.

The self-propelled howitzers currently in use in Switzerland, the M109s, date back to the 1960s and will soon reach the end of their operational life. The Artillery Weapons Platform and Weapons 2026 (Art WPWM 26) project aims to replace these aging systems with a modern artillery platform that ensures increased range, precision, and mobility. The goal is to maintain and develop the Swiss Armed Forces' ability to conduct indirect fire at medium operational distances, a key capability in the country's defense strategy for the coming years.