Germany has placed a 1.2-billion-euro ($1.4-billion) order for 84 RCH 155 wheeled howitzers, signaling a major step in modernizing its artillery forces.
The order goes to Artec, a joint venture between KNDS Germany and Rheinmetall. It falls under a broader framework agreement with the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support for up to 500 RCH 155 systems, which can also be procured by other nations.
Rheinmetall will provide the 155mm weapon systems, electrical components, and software, while Artec will handle assembly, training equipment, and logistical support. Deliveries are scheduled to start in 2027 and conclude by 2029.
The RCH 155 combines the firepower of the automatic, remotely controlled 155mm artillery gun module with the mobility and protection of the Boxer wheeled armored vehicle.
Fully automated, it can fire on the move with high precision at ranges up to 40 kilometers (24.5 miles).
Its advanced automation reduces the crew requirement to just two soldiers — commander and driver — while maintaining rapid readiness and high tactical mobility compared with legacy systems like the Panzerhaubitze 2000.
RCH 155 Deployment
The RCH 155 has been deployed beyond Germany, becoming an essential operational system in other European countries.
The orders reflect the system’s appeal as a wheeled, long-range, high-precision artillery option suitable for NATO operations and partner militaries seeking rapid deployment and mechanized firepower.
Ukraine became the first foreign user, ordering 54 units from KNDS Germany in three separate batches. Rheinmetall is supplying the electrical systems, software, and weapon modules for these deliveries, similar to its role in the German order.
In April 2024, Germany and the UK announced a cooperation agreement covering the potential procurement of RCH 155s by British forces.
Switzerland also picked the RCH 155 system to replace its aging M101 self-propelled howitzer.
