The British Army is set to significantly enhance its artillery capabilities with a new order for 72 advanced remote-control howitzers. The contract, valued at over £1 billion, will see the UK acquire RCH 155 systems from Germany, with deliveries anticipated to commence in 2028. This strategic acquisition aims to address the shortfall in artillery firepower following the donation of numerous AS-90 self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.
The RCH 155, manufactured by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), is a highly automated 155mm artillery system mounted on a Boxer armoured vehicle chassis. The Boxer is a multi-role armoured vehicle already in service with the British Army, meaning the new howitzers will integrate into an existing logistics and maintenance framework. This commonality is expected to streamline training, support, and operational deployment, offering efficiencies in the long term.
A key feature of the RCH 155 is its remote-controlled turret, which allows the crew to operate the weapon system from within the protected confines of the Boxer vehicle. This capability enhances crew safety, particularly in contested environments, and allows for rapid 'shoot and scoot' tactics, reducing vulnerability to counter-battery fire. The system is also designed for high mobility, enabling it to keep pace with mechanised infantry units on the battlefield.
The decision to procure the RCH 155 follows the UK's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defence against Russian aggression, which included supplying a substantial number of its AS-90 Braveheart howitzers. While the AS-90s have proven effective in combat, they are an older system, and their transfer created an urgent need for modern replacements to maintain the British Army's operational readiness and long-range fire support capacity.
This investment underscores the UK's ongoing efforts to modernise its armed forces and adapt to contemporary security challenges. The acquisition of state-of-the-art artillery systems is crucial for maintaining a credible deterrent and ensuring the British Army can effectively contribute to NATO operations and other international commitments. The RCH 155 represents a significant technological leap forward in indirect fire support for the UK.