BAE Systems has responded to the U.S. Army’s July 30th request for proposals for a 155 mm wheeled gun system, offering the ARCHER howitzer for participation in the Army’s “shoot off” evaluation, BAE Systems reported on Monday.
“ARCHER is a mature, proven system that can quickly get into the fight and strike enemy targets at long ranges, with a high rate of fire and very fast displacement times, and is made for combat against large power adversaries,” said Chris King, director of business development at BAE Systems.
ARCHER is a fully automated weapon system that will provide highly responsive and versatile fire support to troops in combat. The Army’s RFP will evaluate mobile howitzers in support of future Army requirements. ARCHER is already in service with the Swedish Army with the highest technical and manufacturing readiness levels.
BAE Systems’ offering will include a fielded package of capabilities that would provide soldiers with responsiveness and flexibility. ARCHER has the ability to fire within 30 seconds of receiving an order.
The system can then depart its firing position within 30 seconds, which will minimize the enemy’s ability to effectively return fire. Its magazine carries 21 rounds and can unload all of them in less than three minutes.
ARCHER can fire the BONUS anti-armor munition up to 35 km, conventional munitions up to 40 km and currently fielded precision-guided munitions like Excalibur in excess of 50 km. BONUS and Excalibur are currently in the U.S. Army’s inventory.
“With a fully automated system, soldiers can execute their mission with minimal physical exertion and time, while remaining undercover in the armored cabin. The cab protection, fast shoot and scoot times and its extended range all enhance survivability and sustain fire support in harsh combat conditions,” King added.
ARCHER is manufactured by BAE Systems Bofors in Sweden.
