The United Kingdom has acquired a cutting-edge weapon system capable of firing eight rounds per minute while on the move at speeds of up to 100km/h.
The newly introduced RCH 155 is a mounted weapon designed to be attached to a BOXER armored vehicle, with a range of hitting targets up to 70km away. A £52 million contract between the UK and Germany has facilitated the deployment of the RCH 155, providing a significant enhancement to the British armed forces, drawing crucial insights from the conflict in Ukraine.
This innovative technology boasts a remarkable operational range of 700km without the need for refueling, which is equivalent to driving from Cornwall to Newcastle. Unlike conventional artillery systems that require setup before firing, the high-speed RCH 155 can engage targets while in motion, making it a swift and elusive threat for adversaries. With advanced automation, the weapon can be operated by just two crew members and can engage targets from any direction without repositioning.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, expressed that the upcoming deployment of the new artillery system will enable the British Army to engage targets from a distance of 70km while swiftly maneuvering to evade counterfire, reflecting the critical lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine. The necessity of rapid firing and mobility, as demonstrated in Ukraine, is shaping the procurement decisions of the army, aligning with the objectives of the Strategic Defence Review.
Currently, soldiers are utilizing 14 Archer artillery systems as interim replacements for the AS90 guns provided to Ukraine. The collaboration between the UK and Germany under the contract includes sharing test data and facilities to ensure both nations benefit from state-of-the-art equipment.
Edward Cutts, Senior Responsible Owner of Mobile Fires in the Army, highlighted the collaborative efforts with Germany in the joint demonstrator program, emphasizing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness achieved through this partnership. The RCH 155 signifies a significant advancement in mobile artillery, combining potent firepower with rapid repositioning capabilities, setting a new standard in military technology integration and enhancing the interoperability between UK and German forces crucial for NATO’s collective defense.
In a recent statement, Defence Secretary John Healey cautioned Vladimir Putin against any attempts to annex Ukraine, emphasizing the UK’s proactive investment in mobilizing troops immediately upon a peace agreement. This commitment follows the launch of a new military intelligence service in response to escalating threats such as cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and risks to global maritime routes.