Germany Orders First 84 RCH155 Wheeled Howitzers
- Germany has initiated production of the RCH155, a remotely controlled, highly automated 155mm wheeled howitzer, signaling a significant shift in modern artillery capabilities.
- The RCH155 (Remote Controlled Howitzer 155) is a self-propelled, wheeled artillery system developed by ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann.
- In December 2023, Germany placed an initial order for 84 RCH155 systems from ARTEC GmbH, valued at approximately €1.4 billion (roughly $1.5 billion USD as of December 21,...
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RCH155 Wheeled Howitzer: A New Era in Artillery for Germany, Ukraine, and Beyond
Table of Contents
Germany has initiated production of the RCH155, a remotely controlled, highly automated 155mm wheeled howitzer, signaling a significant shift in modern artillery capabilities. This system is already seeing operational use in Ukraine and is attracting interest from other nations, including the United Kingdom.
What is the RCH155?
The RCH155 (Remote Controlled Howitzer 155) is a self-propelled, wheeled artillery system developed by ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. It’s designed for rapid deployment, high precision, and a reduced personnel footprint Rheinmetall. A key feature is its high level of automation, intended to minimize the crew required while maintaining a substantial artillery output.
Germany’s Order and Framework Agreement
In December 2023, Germany placed an initial order for 84 RCH155 systems from ARTEC GmbH, valued at approximately €1.4 billion (roughly $1.5 billion USD as of December 21, 2024) German Federal Ministry of Defense. this order is part of a broader framework agreement allowing for the procurement of up to 500 RCH155 systems. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029. The contract includes provisions for training, service, and logistical support.
Rheinmetall is responsible for supplying critical components, including the electrical systems, software, and the 155mm weapon systems themselves Rheinmetall News.
Contract Details
| component | Supplier |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Platform | ARTEC GmbH |
| Electrical Systems | Rheinmetall |
| Software | rheinmetall |
| 155mm Weapon System | Rheinmetall |
| Training,Service,Logistics | Included in ARTEC/Rheinmetall contract |
Operational Use in Ukraine
Ukraine is the first operational user of the RCH155,having directly ordered 54 systems from KNDS Germany in three separate batches.These systems are already being deployed in the ongoing conflict, providing Ukraine with a modern, high