The German Armed Forces has awarded the Artec GmbH, a joint venture of KNDS Germany and Rheinmetallhas placed a major order with Artec. The RCH 155 (Remote Controlled Howitzer 155 Millimeter) wheeled howitzer is to be introduced into the troops. The order for the first 84 RCH 155 wheeled howitzers was received on December 19, 2025. The order value for the first 84 wheeled howitzers and associated training equipment, service and logistical support is around 1.2 billion euros.
The order is based on a framework agreement between Artec GmbH and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) for a total of 500 RCH 155 systems, which can also be ordered by other nations.
Rheinmetall will supply the electrical systems, software and 155-millimeter weapon systems to Artec GmbH. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027 and be completed by 2029. In addition to the RCH 155 wheeled howitzers, Artec is also responsible for the Boxer family of vehicles.
The RCH 155 protected wheeled howitzer combines the firepower and range of the automatic and remote-controlled artillery gun module (AGM) with the protection and mobility of the Boxer wheeled armored vehicle. The fully automatic weapon system makes it possible to fire on the move. Targets can be engaged precisely at a distance of up to 40 kilometers. In addition to its rapid fire capability, the RCH 155’s strengths include its long tactical range on the road and its mobility. Compared to the Panzerhaubitze 2000, the crew could be reduced to two soldiers (commander and driver) due to the high degree of automation.
The first user of the RCH 155 is Ukraine. It has ordered 54 RCH 155s directly from KNDS Germany in three lots. Here too, Rheinmetall is supplying the electrics, software and weapon systems to KNDS Germany. The UK also intends to procure the RCH 155s. The heads of government of Germany and the UK had already announced a corresponding cooperation in April 2024.
Here for further news from Rheinmetall, here to further news from KNDS and here to further reports on the Bundeswehr.
