Rheinmetall to Supply 72 Remote-Controlled 155 mm L/52 Weapon Systems for the British Army's RCH 155 Howitzers
Rheinmetall has secured a major contract to supply 72 remote-controlled 155 mm L/52 weapon systems for the British Army's RCH 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzers, marking another milestone in the United Kingdom's artillery modernization program.
The contract follows the UK's decision to procure 72 RCH 155 systems under the Mobile Fires Platform (MFP) programme, replacing the aging AS-90 self-propelled howitzers with a more mobile, automated, and longer-range artillery capability.
Equipping the Next Generation of British Artillery
Under the agreement, Rheinmetall will deliver the complete 155 mm L/52 RC weapon system, including the gun barrel, recoil system, elevating mass, and associated onboard equipment.
Deliveries will begin after the successful completion of the joint UK-Germany qualification process. In addition to the hardware, Rheinmetall will provide technical documentation, training support, and engineering services to assist the British Army in introducing the new artillery system into operational service.
Combining Firepower with Mobility
The RCH 155 integrates Rheinmetall's 155 mm L/52 remote-controlled artillery module onto the Boxer 8×8 armored vehicle, creating a highly mobile wheeled self-propelled howitzer capable of rapid deployment across the battlefield.
Unlike conventional self-propelled guns, the RCH 155 features an unmanned remote-controlled turret, allowing the crew to operate the weapon from within the protection of the armored vehicle while significantly improving battlefield survivability.
The automated loading system and advanced digital fire-control architecture enable the RCH 155 to deliver rapid, accurate fire while minimizing crew workload. The platform is optimized for shoot-and-scoot operations, allowing it to fire multiple rounds and quickly relocate before enemy counter-battery fire can respond.
Designed for Long-Range Precision Fires
The 155 mm L/52 cannon is capable of firing a wide range of NATO-standard artillery ammunition, including precision-guided projectiles, providing the British Army with improved long-range strike capabilities.
Integrated with modern battlefield management systems, the weapon can rapidly receive targeting information from reconnaissance drones, counter-battery radars, and other networked sensors, enabling faster engagement of high-value targets.
Strengthening NATO's Artillery Capabilities
The RCH 155 programme is being delivered through ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland, combining Germany's advanced artillery technology with the proven Boxer armoured vehicle platform.
Once fielded, the RCH 155 will significantly enhance the British Army's ability to conduct deep fires, precision strikes, and counter-battery operations while improving mobility, automation, and crew protection for future high-intensity conflicts.
The contract further reinforces Rheinmetall's position as one of Europe's leading suppliers of advanced land systems and reflects the growing demand among NATO members for highly automated, long-range artillery capable of operating effectively in modern, contested battlefields.
Author: Kevin Macmellon
