British Army Deploys New Archer 8x8 Howitzers in the Field for the First Time.

During Exercise SCORPION LONGBOW in July 2024, the 19th Regiment Royal Artillery of the British Army deployed the new ARCHER artillery 8x8 self-propelled howitzer in the field for the first time in the United Kingdom. The exercise involved 5 Battery and 127 (Dragon) Battery operating the modern ARCHER systems, while 28/143 Battery continued using the L118 105 Towed Light Gun.
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British Army soldiers deploy the new Archer 8x8 howitzer during a field exercise, showcasing the artillery system's advanced mobility, rapid-fire capabilities, and long-range precision. (Picture source: X accountGabriele Molinelli)

The British Army's acquisition of the ARCHER artillery 8x8 self-propelled howitzer from Sweden was finalized in 2023 as a rapid procurement to replace the 32 AS90 tracked self-propelled howitzers that the UK had sent to Ukraine. The deal involved the purchase of 14 ARCHER 6x6 mobile howitzers, which are scheduled to be fully operational by April 2024. The first units arrived in the UK in October 2023. This interim solution aims to bridge the gap in artillery capabilities until the Mobile Fires Platform, a long-term replacement, is delivered later this decade.

The contract was negotiated between the UK's Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) and the Swedish government. It was secured in just 48 days, marking one of the fastest acquisitions of a complex military system in UK defense history. The total amount of the deal was not publicly specified, but the procurement includes 14 artillery systems along with logistic support, ammunition, and training packages. The ARCHER system, designed by BAE Systems Bofors, boasts a significant range increase over the AS90, firing up to 50 kilometers with extended-range ammunition—double the AS90's range of 25 kilometers.

This acquisition was prompted by the need to quickly replace the AS90 units transferred to Ukraine, ensuring that the British Army maintains its NATO commitments and operational readiness. The ARCHER system's advanced mobility, rapid deployment, and automated capabilities provide enhanced firepower and efficiency, particularly in modern battlefield environments​

The ARCHER artillery system is a state-of-the-art self-propelled howitzer equipped with a 155mm L52 gun mounted on a 6x6 all-terrain Volvo chassis. It offers a range of technical advancements, including the ability to strike targets up to 30 kilometers away with conventional rounds, and over 40 kilometers using base bleed ammunition. With precision-guided munitions such as the Excalibur shell, ARCHER can accurately engage targets at distances up to 60 kilometers. It features a fully automated loading system that allows it to fire three rounds in just 15 seconds and sustain a high rate of fire. The system can hold 21 rounds ready to fire without the need for manual reloading.

ARCHER is operated by a minimal crew of three to four personnel inside an armored cabin, providing protection against small arms fire and shrapnel. Its wheeled chassis offers excellent mobility, allowing the system to be quickly redeployed across different terrains. The system's "shoot and scoot" capability enhances its ability to avoid counter-battery fire.

The exercise also highlighted the transition from older artillery platforms. While 5 and 127 Batteries have adopted the ARCHER system, 28/143 Battery continued using the L118 Light Gun, a less advanced but reliable 105mm towed howitzer. The decision to introduce ARCHER was driven by the need to replace AS90 units, some of which were sent to Ukraine due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. ARCHER's enhanced range, precision, and flexibility make it a critical upgrade for the British Army.

The successful deployment of ARCHER strengthens the UK's artillery capabilities and aligns with NATO standards, allowing for better interoperability with allied forces. Exercise SCORPION LONGBOW provided essential training for personnel to adapt to ARCHER’s systems and operational practices. The British Army plans to continue rolling out ARCHER across more units, ensuring that its artillery regiments are equipped with the latest technology.

As global security challenges continue to evolve, the British Army's acquisition of ARCHER represents a forward-looking effort to maintain a capable and responsive military force. These modernization efforts will improve the UK's defense readiness and ensure that the Army can meet both current and future operational demands.