Experts: Swedish Archer self-propelled artillery systems revolutionized counter-battery warfare in Ukraine
Based on the experience of combat operations in Ukraine, and in particular, counter-battery warfare, American experts will develop a new strategy that will take into account both the existing capabilities and future needs of artillery.
Footage of the Swedish 155-mm Archer self-propelled wheeled howitzer as part of the 45th Artillery Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in combat against Russian troops has been posted online. According to Army Recognition experts, this self-propelled gun has shown high efficiency on the battlefield, revolutionizing counter-battery combat.
The Archer self-propelled gun, the reviewers write, is a prime example of BAE Systems Bofors’ artillery expertise, combining accuracy, mobility and rapid deployment, and has played a significant role in modern artillery warfare.
The Swedish howitzer is mounted on a Volvo A30D all-terrain vehicle with a 6×6 wheel configuration. The automated charging system allows you to quickly engage in combat within 30 seconds, which makes it possible to effectively use the “shoot and run” tactic, which involves firing and immediately moving to a new location to avoid an enemy counterattack.
The self-propelled gun is also characterized by a high rate of fire – up to six shots per minute – and the ability to quickly redeploy after a battle.
“This provides a tactical advantage, enabling long-term operations with minimal exposure to enemy fire,” the experts emphasize.
The long-range capability of artillery systems also plays an important role in counter-battery warfare. In the case of the Archer self-propelled gun, the range is up to 40 km with standard ammunition and can be extended to 60 km with M982 Excalibur high-precision ammunition.
Assessment of American experts
Military experts from the United States, observers write, emphasize the importance of artillery systems in the fight of Ukrainian forces against Russian troops. The situation in Ukraine emphasizes the crucial role of artillery in modern warfare, so the US military is developing a new strategy for conventional fire based on its experience in combat.
“This strategy is influenced by lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, which emphasize the importance of both precision and conventional fire. It is new, paying special attention to technological advances,” the experts continue.
In particular, experts are paying attention to improving fuel for self-propelled vehicles and gun charging systems.
In conclusion, the problems faced by the opposing sides were noted. Ukrainian troops are experiencing a shortage of 155-mm shells supplied by the West, and Russian artillery is facing its own problems with the rationing of ammunition from its own Soviet-era stockpiles. Because of this, the occupiers have to fire old, “unusable” shells.
As a reminder, on November 3, the Commander of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, congratulated the military on the occasion of the Day of Missile Forces and Artillery. In particular, during the greeting, the Archer self-propelled gun, the supply of which was previously announced by Sweden, was shown.
