UK signs GBP52 million RCH 155 testing contract
RCH 155 mm/52 calibre wheeled SPH displayed at DVD 2024. (Janes/Sunil Nair)
The United Kingdom and Germany have signed a GBP52 million (USD70 million) contract for an early capability demonstrator for the Boxer-mounted 155 mm Remote Controlled Howitzer (RCH 155).
The KNDS and Rheinmetall-developed self-propelled howitzer (SPH) was selected by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) for its mobile fires platform.
The British Army currently operates 14 BAE Systems Archer SPHs as a stopgap force. The MoD confirmed in a Freedom of Information (FOI) statement in November 2025 that it had donated to Ukraine all 99 of the remaining AS90 SPHs declared by it in the UN Register of Conventional Arms (ROCA) of 2021.
In a press release on 28 December, the MoD said the RCH 155 had a top speed of 100 km/h and a maximum road range of 700 km. The MoD added it can fire up to eight rounds per minute while moving at slow speeds, has a 360° arc of fire, a maximum firing range of up to 70 km, and thanks to automation can operate with two crew members.
The UK will get one demonstrator and Germany two in a joint testing programme. The two countries will share test data and facilities with the intention of accelerating procurement timelines while reducing costs, said the UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard.
Further analysis and assessment online:
Feature: European countries procure artillery systems
Special Report: Germany approves 30 more procurements worth EUR50 billion
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