Ukrainian Forces Deploy Swedish Archer Howitzers With Enhanced Firepower

The 43rd Artillery Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was recently supplied with Archer self-propelled howitzers from Sweden, according to reports on February 18.

These advanced artillery systems are already being used on the front lines, with videos showing them firing SgR M/77 shells.

According to Militarnyi, the Archer units, equipped with Barracuda camouflage, are notable for their modern design, though they do not include the remotely operated machine gun turret.

The 155mm self-propelled howitzers, developed by BAE Systems Bofors, have been in service with the Swedish military since 2013. Sweden’s parliament approved their transfer to Ukraine in 2023.

In addition to the howitzers, Sweden has supplied Ukraine with enhanced-range SgR M/77 shells. The Archer system can also use a variety of NATO-standard ammunition, including the BONUS shell and M982 Excalibur guided projectiles.

The system’s 155mm FH 77B gun is fully automated, with a rapid loading mechanism that can fire six rounds in 30 seconds.

Previously, it was reported that for the first time since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a North Korean M-1978 “Koksan” self-propelled artillery system has reportedly been destroyed in combat.