Image: BAE Systems ©
Sweden has received its first four BAE Systems ARCHER 8×8 mobile howitzers, marking a milestone in the modernisation of the country’s divisional artillery. The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) formally handed over the systems during a ceremony at the Villingsberg firing range.
The delivery forms part of a broader $500 million contract signed in 2023, covering 48 new ARCHER systems. Sweden expanded the deal in 2025, ordering 18 additional units as part of a wider military support package.
Lena Gillström, CEO of BAE Systems Bofors, commented: “This step is the result of close cooperation between BAE Systems, FMV, and the Swedish Armed Forces.” She added that the handover reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Sweden’s long-range artillery capabilities.
“I am very proud of everyone who has contributed to reaching this point,” Gillström said. She noted the milestone paves the way for further deliveries, supporting Sweden’s ongoing efforts to reinforce its divisional artillery.
The ARCHER represents the next generation of wheeled artillery systems. Engineers designed it to keep pace with fast-moving land forces. It combines strong mobility with lethality and survivability, giving crews the ability to fire and relocate quickly.
The programme reflects a wider trend across Europe, where nations are investing heavily in long-range fires and mobile artillery. Sweden’s push to modernise its divisional artillery comes amid heightened regional security concerns, as per a recent press statement, and reinforces its position within NATO’s evolving defence posture.
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