BAE Teams With Babcock, Rheinmetall for UKs AS90 Howitzer Replacement Program

Defense News - BAE Systems has joined forces with Babcock and Rheinmetall to present the Archer artillery system as a replacement for the British Army AS90 armored self-propelled howitzer. This collaboration is in support of the UK Ministry of Defence Mobile Fires Platform program, which aims to enhance 155-millimeter capabilities.

Within this consortium, BAE will contribute by supplying and integrating weapon systems, barrels, and gun control technologies for the Archer. Additionally, the company will establish and manage an Assembly, Integration, and Test facility dedicated to the project. Simultaneously, Babcock will focus on streamlining processes related to the superstructure and ammunition resupply system, bringing maintenance and manufacturing expertise to the initiative.

The joint venture RSBL, formed by BAE and Rheinmetall, will take on responsibilities related to the Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicle (RMMV) HX 8×8 truck chassis, ensuring its preparation before integration with the artillery system.

"The ARCHER, already in service with the British Army as its interim solution, is one of the most advanced, fielded artillery systems in the world today," commented John Borton, BAE Weapon Systems UK Managing Director. "Working with our strategic partners in the UK, we believe that an ARCHER-based solution would allow the British Army to significantly accelerate the delivery of the Mobile Fires Platform program."

The aim of the Archer consortium is to secure a substantial amount of British industrial content once the Mobile Fires Platform program reaches full-rate production. BAE Systems plans to leverage its expertise in Sweden and the UK to reintroduce sovereign barrel manufacturing in the UK. This initiative not only seeks operational independence but also aims to ensure the security of supply through a sovereign artillery manufacturing solution.

The Archer, designed for rapid land warfare, is a wheeled, fully-automated weapon system. Operators can control the platform from an integrated armored cabin, allowing for swift relocation within 30 seconds after firing. BAE claims that the Archer can deploy six rounds in under two minutes and relocate up to 500 meters after each attack.