Rheinmetall is strengthening the UK Army’s artillery capabilities after receiving a contract worth several hundred million euros to provide weapon systems for 72 RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers. The order includes 72 elevating masses, onboard equipment and related services, with manufacturing planned at the company’s new Telford facility. British steel supplied by Sheffield Forgemasters will be used, helping support employment in the region and throughout the national supply chain. The RCH 155 acquisition is being conducted under the Mobile Fires Platform program, which seeks to replace the British Army’s AS-90 artillery fleet. The howitzer contract was previously awarded to ARTEC, a joint venture between KNDS and Rheinmetall, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The RCH 155 combines a Boxer 8×8 armored chassis with a remotely operated automated turret. Its two-person crew operates from a protected cabin, while the vehicle can travel at up to 100 km/h. Rheinmetall says the system can fire accurately while moving and engage targets beyond 70 km.
