Will the Finnish Navy choose CAESAr NG or Archer as future mobile artillery systems?.

On July 13, 2024, the Finnish Navy (Merivoimat) initiated a tender process to acquire mobile artillery systems for the Suomenlinna Coastal Regiment, one of the three tactical units within the Coastal Brigade. Finland maintains a distinctive stance among global militaries by continuing to utilize traditional tube artillery systems alongside mobile anti-ship missile launchers. The primary anti-ship missiles in use by Merivoimat are the MtO-85M, a Finnish designation for the Saab RBS-15 SF III.
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Unofficially, there is significant interest in the French Nexter CAESAr Mark II and the Swedish Archer 155 mm self-propelled howitzers. (Picture source: Swedish MoD and Army Recognition)

Despite their designation, these missiles correspond to the technical specifications of the Swedish Mk 2 variant. These missiles are mounted on Sisu Sk-181 8x8 trucks, with older models utilizing Sisu SK-242 trucks. The Finnish Navy currently has approximately 118 MtO-85M missiles in storage, with a range of about 70 kilometers.

In terms of artillery systems, Finland continues to operate 15 Tampella 130 53 TK 130 mm guns, which have been in service since 1984. These guns are housed in bunkers embedded in coastal rocks along Finland’s 1,100 km shoreline. Each turret weighs 16 tons and can engage targets up to 40 kilometers away with a firing rate of up to six rounds per minute. Each gun crew consists of three non-commissioned officers and seven soldiers. However, these fixed positions are increasingly seen as vulnerable in modern warfare, leading to a shift towards highly mobile, truck-mounted systems.

The tender specifications indicate that Merivoimat plans to procure between 12 and 20 mobile artillery systems, with an option for six additional units. Key requirements include high mobility, the ability to operate in Finland’s varied coastal conditions, and compatibility with NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition. The systems must also be capable of rapid deployment and repositioning to avoid detection and counterattacks, a tactic known as "shoot-and-scoot." Precision and cost-effectiveness are also critical considerations, with a preference for wheeled platforms to enhance mobility.

The CAESAr MkII is noted for its lighter weight compared to the Archer, offering better strategic mobility, and a lower cost per unit. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Unofficially, according to ZBAM, there is significant interest in the French Nexter CAESAr (Camion Équipé d'un Système d'Artillerie) 155 mm/52 self-propelled howitzer, specifically the latest Mark II or CAESAr NG variant, currently in the design phase. This system is slated for inclusion in the French Army between 2026 and 2030, with export orders already placed by Belgium and Lithuania. The CAESAr Mark II can target up to 40 kilometers, extending to 55 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles. Its primary competitor is the Swedish Archer system developed by BAE Systems, which utilizes a derivative of the FH 77 155 mm/52 howitzer. However, the Archer's higher weight of 34 tons and cost of €12 million per unit, compared to the CAESAr’s 18 tons and €6 million, present notable differences.

The Archer and CAESAr MkII mobile artillery systems represent two advanced options for wheeled howitzers, each with specific features suited to contemporary military needs. Developed by BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden, the Archer features a 155 mm 52-caliber gun mounted on a 6x6 or 8x8 articulated hauler. It can fire various munitions, including BONUS anti-armor rounds up to 35 km, conventional rounds up to 40 km, and precision-guided Excalibur rounds exceeding 50 km. The system's automated loading and firing processes are managed from within an armored cabin, providing protection for the crew. The Archer's rapid deployment and firing times, combined with its high level of mobility, make it a flexible asset in artillery operations.

In comparison, the French CAESAr MkII, designed by Nexter, also uses a 155 mm 52-caliber gun and focuses on versatility and future adaptability. Scheduled for deployment in the French Army between 2026 and 2030, the CAESAr MkII has a firing range of up to 40 km with standard munitions and up to 55 km with rocket-assisted projectiles. It can be integrated on various truck chassis, enhancing its adaptability to different operational environments. The CAESAr MkII is noted for its lighter weight compared to the Archer, offering better strategic mobility, and a lower cost per unit, which is approximately half that of the Archer. These aspects contribute to its attractiveness among international clients, including Belgium and Lithuania.

Both systems offer advancements in range, precision, and automation. The Archer's automation and protective features come with increased weight and cost, while the CAESAr MkII prioritizes flexibility and affordability. The choice between these systems depends on specific military requirements and budget considerations, reflecting the trade-offs between protection, cost, and operational flexibility in modern artillery systems.

The Archer's rapid deployment and firing times, combined with its high level of mobility, make it a flexible asset in artillery operations. (Picture source: Swedish Army)