BAE Systems Bofors begins trials for HX2-based Archer

A Swedish BAE Systems Bofors Archer 155 mm/52 artillery system integrated onto a German Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) HX2 (8×8) platform – aimed at the export market – has begun initial firing trials at the Bofors Test Center in Karlskoga, Sweden, the company told Jane’s.

To meet potential export customer requirements, BAE Systems Bofors integrated the complete Archer elevating mass with 155 mm/52 calibre ordnance and its associated automatic ammunition handling system onto the rear of a RMMV HX2 truck. The Archer stabilisers are also fitted and are lowered to the ground on either side before firing.

“By basing Archer on a Rheinmetall MAN Military HX2 8×8 platform, it will appeal to a wider potential export customer market,” said Ulf Einefors, director for marketing and sales at BAE Systems Bofors.

The 155 mm/52 calibre ordnance has a double baffle muzzle brake and is laid onto the target from the cab by remote control. It is coupled to an onboard computerised fire control system (FCS) that can receive information direct from the forward observer or from a battery command post, according to BAE Systems Bofors.

A muzzle velocity radar is also fitted and feeds information to the FCS. A Global Positioning System supported inertial navigation system provides for accurate navigation and positioning information to the FCS.

Elevation limits of the 155 mm/52 calibre ordnance are from -1° to 70°, with a traverse of 85° left and right.

Its range depends on the projectile/charge combination, but BAE Systems Bofors said its maximum ranges were: 30,000 m for high-explosive (HE), 40,000 m for HE extended-range (HE ER), 35,000 m for Bonus top attack, and 50,000 m for M982 Excalibur. All of those rounds have been qualified.