Archer Expands Market Reach as Latvia Plans to Acquire 18 Swedish Self-Propelled Howitzers

Latvia’s Ministry of Defense has signed a letter of intent to purchase 18 Swedish-made Archer 155mm self-propelled artillery systems, the ministry said in a press release.

Under the agreement, Latvia plans to acquire the systems on an 8×8 wheeled chassis. The deal could also involve participation from the Latvian defense industry at later stages.

Latvia has been working to expand its domestic defense sector, with an emphasis on localizing the production of advanced weapons systems.

Most recently, the government announced plans to localize 30% of the production of Spike anti-tank missile systems.

The procurement process for the howitzers is expected to begin in 2026. The timeline for delivery and contract value has not been disclosed.

The agreement also includes a provision under which Sweden will supply a number of Archer systems to Latvia for temporary use until the full order is delivered.

Archer

Archer is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer developed by BAE Systems Bofors and introduced into the Swedish Army in 2013.

The system is based on the fully automated FH 77B gun with a 55-caliber barrel. Thanks to its autoloader, it can fire six rounds in 30 seconds along multiple trajectories to enhance effectiveness.

The howitzer is compatible with the full range of NATO-standard 155mm ammunition, including precision-guided BONUS and M982 Excalibur rounds, which are also in service with the UK.

Its firing range varies by projectile type:

• 30 km with standard high-explosive shells,
• 40 km with extended-range shells (HE ER),
• 60 km with M982 Excalibur guided projectiles.

The platform is mounted on a modified Volvo A30D or MAN HX2 6×6 chassis. Both the crew cabin and engine compartment are armored, providing protection against small arms fire and shell fragments.