Image source: topwar.ru
BAE Systems has shown the first 155-mm Archer 8x8 self-propelled gun of a new type, manufactured for the Swedish army, which is designed to overcome the shortcomings of the previous modification.
The basic version of the Archer is based on a Volvo A30D 6x6 articulated chassis, which has made the self-propelled gun one of the most passable in its class. But it has also become the source of a number of serious problems.
The Archer 8x8 ACS transferred to Sweden on the MAN chassis:
Image source: topwar.ru
The Volvo A30D is a modified mining dump truck. This platform is unique and not unified with the rest of the fleet of NATO military trucks, which creates problems with the supply of spare parts.
TTX Archer 6x6 on Volvo chassis:
Image source: topwar.ru
Insufficient frame strength was recorded at the joints. The enormous loads when firing 155-mm guns eventually led to metal fatigue in the nodes, which were originally designed to transport soil, and not to dampen artillery recoil.
The chassis has weight limits. Installing a full-fledged heavy booking on the cabin overloaded the front axle, impairing the handling and reliability of the suspension.
An articulated system is more difficult to repair than a conventional rigid frame. Any damage to the hydraulics that turn the machine will immobilize the installation.
The Volvo-based layout features made it possible to place only 21 shells in the tank. This is not enough for an intense battle, which requires the constant presence of TZM nearby.
TTX Archer 8x8 on MAN chassis:
Image source: topwar.ru
Taking into account all these factors, Sweden has ordered a new type of 48 Archer mounted on the chassis of a German Rheinmetall MAN HX2 8x8 truck. The British and Lithuanian armies also chose the MAN-based option as more reliable and compliant with NATO standards (14 and 18 self-propelled guns were purchased, respectively). However, for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the platform will remain the same: in March 2025, Sweden decided to purchase 18 Archer self-propelled guns based on Volvo for its "partner" (in addition to the previously transferred 8), apparently in order to support the local automaker.
