16 June 2022

Eurosatory 2022: Swedish FMV and BAE Systems Bofors sign LOI to establish additional Archer battalion

by Nicholas Fiorenza

Sweden's 24 additional Archer 8×8 SPHs will be mounted on the RMMV HX2 truck, seen here displayed at Eurosatory 2022. (Janes/Nicholas Fiorenza)

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and BAE Systems Bofors announced on 15 June that they had signed a letter of intent (LOI) to establish an additional Archer self-propelled howitzer (SPH) battalion in line with the Swedish Total Defence Strategy 2021–25 at the Eurosatory 2022 defence exhibition being held in Paris from 13 to 17 June. The LOI was signed by BAE Systems Bofors managing director Lena Gillström and Brigadier General Mikael Frisell, director of land systems at the FMV.

Gillström said, “This letter of intent lays out the path for additional Archers for Sweden. We look forward to being part of the development of increased artillery capability for the nation.” Brig Gen Frisell added that “We can start the process for and production of divisional artillery for Sweden.” BAE Systems told Janes on 13 June that Sweden intends to procure 24 Archer SPHs mounted on Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) HX2 8×8 trucks for the country's single division.

Gillström revealed that ”BAE Systems has just completed the delivery of the first 48 Archer vehicles for the Swedish Army”. The first four prototypes were delivered in 2013 for training, and BAE Systems Bofors delivered the first operational Archer system to the FMV on 28 September 2015, according to Janes World Armies. The 48 Archers so far delivered are mounted on Volvo A30D 6×6 articulated all‐terrain hauler vehicles.

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and BAE Systems Bofors announced on 15 June that t...

Jane's Find unrivaled intelligence, consultancy and advertising solutions to the defence and national security sectors.