
The British Army will begin receiving its new self-propelled RCH 155 howitzers starting in 2028, with deliveries scheduled through 2032.
The program is part of a contract valued at nearly US$1.34 billion signed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation with ARTEC GmbH, a partnership formed by KNDS and Rheinmetall. According to the British government, the systems will be delivered individually throughout the established schedule.
The RCH 155 is considered one of the most modern artillery systems currently available. Mounted on the armored BOXER platform, the system can strike targets up to 70 kilometers away and fire up to eight rounds per minute. Its automated turret allows operation by only two soldiers, while the vehicle’s high mobility enables rapid movement at speeds of up to 100 km/h after firing.
In addition to strengthening military capabilities, the project will also have a direct impact on the United Kingdom’s defense industry. Essential parts of the system will be produced in British factories using domestic steel, while production of the drive module will take place in Stockport. The program is expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs and strengthen the supply chain linked to the country’s defense sector.
The new howitzers will replace the AS90 systems previously sent to support Ukraine. British authorities say the acquisition helps restore military capabilities considered essential after donations made during the conflict. Until the RCH 155 officially enters service, the Archer system will continue to be used as a temporary solution by the British Army.
We’ve signed a significant £1 billion contract for 72 Remote Controlled Howitzer artillery systems (RCH 155).
The RCH 155 is the future of @britisharmy artillery capability and it’s being built by workers in Telford and Stockport, using British steel from Sheffield. pic.twitter.com/LOCTNqDDB2
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) May 14, 2026
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Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @DefenceHQ | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
