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Switzerland Selects AGM Artillery Module on Piranha IV to Replace M109 Howitzers.
On November 5, 2024, Switzerland took a decisive step toward modernizing its artillery capabilities by selecting a new system. Armasuisse, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement, concluded its evaluation and now recommends acquiring the AGM (Artillery Gun Module) mounted on the Piranha IV vehicle from Germany’s KNDS. This funding request will be presented to Parliament as part of the 2025 Army Message to initiate the replacement process.
The AGM system on KNDS's Piranha IV was selected as the most favorable option, fulfilling Armasuisse's tactical, technical, logistical, economic, and sustainability requirements (Picture source: Armasuisse )
The AGM, integrated with the Piranha Heavy Mission Carrier (HMC), represents a significant advancement in modern artillery by combining mobility and firepower. Developed jointly by KNDS Deutschland and General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS), this system is defined by its fully automated, crewless 155mm (caliber 52) artillery piece mounted on the Piranha HMC. Weighing 40 tons and boasting a turning radius of less than 18 meters thanks to its four-axle steering, the system provides exceptional tactical mobility. The Piranha HMC's 10x10 multi-link chassis platform allows it to fire on the move without deploying stabilizing supports—an uncommon capability among wheeled self-propelled artillery systems. The vehicle is operable by a two-person crew, with an option to add a third member or additional storage.
The AGM module offers advanced capabilities, including 360º firing, "Shoot & Scoot" functionality, and MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact), enabling simultaneous strikes on multiple targets. With its ability for both direct and indirect fire and its capacity to engage moving targets on land and sea, the AGM on Piranha HMC is a versatile and resilient solution. Its command, navigation, and fire control systems operate autonomously, reducing crew workload through integrated robotic intelligence. The AGM module is also compatible with the 8x8 Boxer vehicle, enhancing NATO interoperability and facilitating cooperation among member forces.
Switzerland's artillery modernization project comes as the current self-propelled M109 howitzer, in service for over 50 years, nears the end of its operational life. Recognizing the need to maintain and enhance medium-range indirect fire capabilities with improved precision and mobility, the Swiss Army, led by Armasuisse, launched the "Artillery Platform and Equipment" (WPWM) project. This initiative, which began with a project contract in 2019, aims to identify a solution that meets the army’s needs through a wheeled vehicle suited for modern battlefield requirements.
This renewal project is extensive and multifaceted, encompassing not only the artillery platform replacement but also its integration with the Swiss Army’s communication, command, and fire control systems. It also includes training and simulation solutions and a complete logistics support framework to ensure system maintenance. An initial munitions procurement is also planned to guarantee full operational readiness upon deployment.
The candidate evaluation process began with a call for tenders from multiple international manufacturers. Based on Swiss military requirements, Armasuisse shortlisted two candidates in 2022: the Archer Mobile Howitzer from Sweden’s BAE Systems Bofors and the KNDS-proposed 155mm AGM artillery module, mounted on two possible platforms, Boxer and Piranha. This selection led to rigorous testing, including logistical, technical, and operational evaluations conducted in close cooperation with the industry and several army units, such as the Army Logistics Base, the Training Command, and the Operations Command.
From January 2023 to June 2024, both systems underwent in-depth testing, including logistical trials, technical assessments of the main weapon abroad, mobility tests on Swiss road networks and rough terrain, as well as exercises involving both professional soldiers and Swiss militia members. Live demonstrations and firing tests were conducted in collaboration with foreign military forces and other defense authorities.
These new howitzers strengthen interoperability with NATO forces, supporting joint exercises and multinational missions (Picture source: Armasuisse )
Following this evaluation phase, the AGM system on KNDS’s Piranha IV emerged as the most advantageous offering, meeting Armasuisse’s tactical, technical, logistical, economic, and sustainability criteria. This selection marks a turning point for Swiss artillery equipment, providing a modernized indirect fire capability on a platform meeting the highest technological standards. In the coming months, the project team will focus on integrating the AGM's communication and command systems with the Piranha IV. Preparations for the 2025 Army Message funding proposal are also underway to ensure prompt financial support.
Switzerland’s M109 self-propelled howitzers, officially designated as "15.5 cm Self-Propelled Howitzer M109 KAWEST WE," have been acquired in several phases since 1968, forming the backbone of the Swiss motorized artillery. While they have been periodically upgraded, with combat improvements in 1995 and updates in 2012, this system—recently granted a usage extension in 2021—now shows signs of obsolescence. Acquiring the AGM artillery module on Piranha IV opens a new era for the Swiss Armed Forces, equipping them with a more mobile, precise artillery capability suited to modern conflict requirements.
The acquisition of the new AGM-mounted Piranha IV howitzers will bring several advantages to the Swiss Army. First, these systems offer increased mobility due to their 10x10 wheeled chassis, allowing rapid redeployment and greater operational flexibility compared to the older tracked M109 howitzers. This mobility is further enhanced by the ability to fire while on the move, reducing vulnerability to counter-battery fire.
Secondly, the fully automated 155mm caliber 52 AGM reduces crew workload and improves firing rates. The system's enhanced range and accuracy enable more effective medium-range strikes, meeting modern battlefield demands. Additionally, integration with Swiss communication and command systems ensures better coordination and optimized response times during operations.
Lastly, these new howitzers strengthen interoperability with NATO forces, supporting joint exercises and multinational missions. Overall, introducing the AGM on Piranha IV modernizes Swiss artillery, offering a combination of mobility, firepower, and technological compatibility to address contemporary challenges.