Breaking News: United Kingdom Purchases RCH155 Self-Propelled Howitzer from Germany.

The British Army announced on its X account on April 24, 2024, the acquisition of the RCH155 as a mobile firing platform. This modern artillery system, a collaborative venture between the United Kingdom and Germany, promises to enhance the operational flexibility and firepower of the British ground forces.
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The British Army has formalized the acquisition of the Boxer RCH 155mm. (Picture source: KNDS)

The British Army has formalized the acquisition of the Boxer RCH 155mm for its armed forces. The German self-propelled howitzer will be jointly produced in Germany and the United Kingdom.

Mounted on the versatile Boxer vehicle, the RCH155 system is recognized for its mobility, rapid deployment capabilities, and impressive range. It represents a strategic evolution in the artillery assets of the British Army, offering an upgrade over older systems.

Constructed jointly in the United Kingdom and Germany, the project is not only a military upgrade but also a boon for the economy, supporting hundreds of jobs in both nations. The collaboration underscores the ongoing commitment to defense and security cooperation between the UK and Germany, reinforcing their role as key players on the European defense stage.

"The integration of the RCH155 on the Boxer vehicle marks a crucial advancement in our military capabilities," said Defense Minister Cartlidge. "This platform will not only enhance our operational effectiveness but also strengthen our defense manufacturing sector, providing sustainable jobs and stimulating local economies."

The RCH 155 is an advanced mobile artillery system, designed to deliver significant firepower on the battlefield. Equipped with a 155mm/L52 main gun, the RCH 155 is compliant with the Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding (JBMoU), thus ensuring it meets international standards in terms of artillery ammunition.

This artillery system stands out with its ability to fire up to 9 rounds per minute, making it an effective platform for rapid support fire. Its pointing capability is exceptionally flexible, with an azimuth range of 360°, allowing adjustments of +/- 200°, and an elevation capability ranging from -2.5° to +65°. This flexibility enables the RCH 155 to engage targets in a variety of scenarios without the need for additional vehicular support for stabilization.

The combat range of the RCH 155 varies depending on the types of projectiles, charges, and primers used. With reduced-drag projectiles, it can reach targets up to 40 kilometers away, and this range extends to 54 kilometers with V-LAP projectiles. Even longer ranges are possible with the use of specialized ammunition such as VULCANO or EXCALIBUR, which are designed for enhanced precision and range.

The British Army has already embarked on a modernization of its artillery capabilities prior to acquiring the RCH 155, with the purchase of the Archer artillery system aimed at replacing the older AS-90 howitzers. The Archer, a highly mobile-wheeled artillery system, complements the recently acquired Boxer-based RCH 155, which also features advanced mobility and firepower.

Defense News April 2024