BAE Systems Promotes Archer at AUSA 2024 as Future Wheeled Self-Propelled Howitzer for US Army.

At the 2024 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference, BAE Systems presented the Archer 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer as a key contender for the U.S. Army’s future artillery needs. This effort is part of the U.S. Army’s broader modernization plan aimed at improving the mobility, firepower, and operational flexibility of its artillery units.
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The Archer is a fully automated, truck-mounted 155mm self-propelled artillery system designed to provide rapid, high-mobility fire support. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Archer artillery system is a highly automated, wheeled 155mm howitzer that can respond rapidly in combat scenarios. It is capable of firing within 30 seconds of receiving a fire mission and can launch up to 21 rounds in less than three minutes. This rapid rate of fire, combined with its mobility, makes Archer an ideal candidate for modern combat situations where speed and firepower are critical.

One of the key features of Archer is its exceptional mobility. Mounted on a wheeled platform, it can relocate swiftly after firing, reducing its vulnerability to enemy counter-battery fire. The system can move 500 meters in under two minutes, ensuring the crew remains protected within an armored cabin. The entire gun system is operated from inside this cabin, prioritizing the safety of soldiers while allowing for continuous operations in high-threat environments.

Archer’s versatility extends beyond conventional artillery. It can fire both standard artillery munitions and more advanced rounds, such as the BONUS anti-armor and Excalibur precision-guided munitions. With Excalibur rounds, Archer can hit targets with precision at ranges up to 40 kilometers, offering long-range fire support that is highly accurate, making it particularly effective in targeting enemy positions and reducing collateral damage.

Internationally, Archer has already seen significant success. It is currently in service with the Swedish Army and was recently selected by the British Army to replace its aging AS90 systems, following the UK's decision to donate these older systems to Ukraine. The British Army's adoption of Archer is part of their larger effort to modernize their 155mm artillery capabilities, highlighting the system's proven effectiveness and reliability.

Crucially, Archer has also played an important role in Ukraine’s defense against Russian forces. As part of its efforts to counter Russia’s military advances, Ukraine has utilized the Archer for precision long-range artillery strikes. This combat experience has proven the system’s value on the battlefield, offering rapid, mobile firepower that has helped Ukrainian forces target Russian positions effectively. The combination of its rapid response time, firepower, and survivability has made Archer a key asset in Ukraine's defense strategy.

Additionally, Archer is being considered by other countries, including Switzerland, which has shortlisted the system as part of its artillery modernization program. Its availability on both 6x6 and 8x8 platforms further enhances its appeal to a wide range of international customers, making Archer a low-risk, combat-tested option for modernizing artillery systems worldwide.