As part of the evaluation of a new artillery system, the Federal Armaments Office Armasuisse has completed the practical trials of the three shortlisted systems. The tests were carried out in collaboration with industry and the Swiss Armed Forces (-> current news about the Swiss Armed Forces) between January 2023 and June 2024 in Switzerland and abroad.
This involved checking whether the systems meet the requirements. The results and findings will be evaluated over the next few months and summarized in an evaluation report.
As part of the evaluation of a new artillery system, the Federal Office of Armaments #armasuisse has completed practical trials of the three systems on the shortlist. ➡️ https://t.co/Ry6tkZngJr pic.twitter.com/ODSFBJAnk0
– VBS – DDPS (@vbs_ddps) September 3, 2024
Following the pre-evaluation, the Federal Office of Armaments Armasuisse selected three systems for the evaluation. These are the systems: Archer Mobile Howitzer from BAE Systems Bofors from Sweden and from KNDS Germany the systems RCH 155 with Boxer carrier platform and AGM Artillery Gun Module with Piranha carrier platform.
Evaluation – a complex and decisive phase
Logistical clarifications, technical firing tests, mobility tests and troop tests were carried out with each of the three prototypes from industry. In particular, it was checked whether the systems met the project objectives and military requirements, whether they were suitable for militia use and whether the performance promised by the manufacturers was achieved.
In parallel to the practical trials, the official requests for quotations are being issued, which relate to contractual and commercial aspects as well as life cycle costs. The results and findings from the practical trials will be evaluated over the next few months and summarized in the evaluation report. Together with the offers received, it will form the basis for the subsequent type decision. The procurement is to be requested in one of the next army dispatches. https://militaeraktuell.at/bundesheer-aufbauplan-standort-hoersching/
Aim and purpose of the project
The M109 self-propelled howitzers currently in service date back to the 1960s and will reach the end of their service life in the next few years and need to be replaced with a new and modern artillery system. The “Artillery Effective Platform and Effective Means 2026” project (Art WPWM 26) is intended to ensure the maintenance and further development of indirect fire capabilities at medium operational distances with increased range, precision and mobility.
Here for more news from KNDS and here to further news from BAE Systems.
