BAE Systems has unveiled the first newly manufactured Archer 155 mm self-propelled howitzer for the Swedish Army, signaling the restart of national Archer production after several years. Mounted on the MAN HX2 8×8 military truck, the new vehicle reflects a significant design evolution focused on improved mobility, sustainment, and long-term operational resilience.
The rolled-out howitzer is the first unit from a new production batch built specifically for Sweden and represents a departure from earlier Archer configurations. By adopting the MAN HX2 platform, Sweden is modernizing the artillery system to better align with contemporary military logistics standards and future battlefield requirements.
This milestone follows a September 2023 contract between the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and BAE Systems Bofors for 48 newly built Archer systems. The agreement, announced at the DSEI 2023 defence exhibition in London and valued at several billion SEK, was intended to restore and expand Sweden’s artillery strength after previously operational Archer units were donated to Ukraine. The decision to procure entirely new-build systems ensures full service life availability and preserves Sweden’s domestic artillery industrial base.
The original wheeled Archer was integrated on the Volvo A30D 6×6 articulated hauler, a civilian-derived platform adapted for military operations. While this chassis delivered outstanding mobility across Sweden’s rugged and snow-covered terrain, it offered limited growth potential in terms of payload, protection, and electrical power, and was less compatible with NATO-standard military vehicle fleets.
The new MAN HX2-based configuration overcomes these limitations. The HX2 8×8 is a purpose-built military truck featuring higher payload capacity, improved drivetrain durability, and optional ballistic and mine-resistant protection. Its expanded power generation supports advanced digital fire-control systems, networked command-and-control integration, and future enhancements such as longer-range ammunition and counter-drone systems. The platform also improves road mobility and logistics commonality within NATO, strengthening Sweden’s interoperability with allied forces.
From a technical standpoint, Archer remains among the most capable wheeled artillery systems currently fielded. The 155 mm L52 gun, combined with a fully automated ammunition handling and loading system, allows firing rates of up to eight rounds per minute. The system supports Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact engagements and carries sufficient onboard ammunition for sustained operations without immediate resupply. Firing ranges exceed 40 km with extended-range shells and can reach beyond 50 km when employing precision-guided munitions such as the M982 Excalibur.
