The Swiss Federal Office of Armaments, armasuisse, has selected KNDS Deutschland’s RCH 155 AGM Artillery Gun Module system as the winner of a competitive tender for a new artillery system. The system will be mounted on a Piranha IV vehicle.
The Artillery Weapons Platform and Ammunition (WPWM) project also encompasses the integration of advanced communication, command, and control systems, fire-control systems, training tools, and logistical resources. Additionally, it includes the initial procurement of ammunition to support the new artillery system.
This decision marks a significant step in modernizing the Swiss Army’s artillery capabilities. The current M109 Panzerhaubitze system is approaching the end of its service life. The new AGM system offers superior range, precision, and mobility, enabling the Swiss Army to maintain its operational effectiveness.
KNDS Deutschland’s AGM system outperformed other contenders, including BAE Systems Bofors AB’s Archer Mobile Howitzer. The selection process, which ran between January 2023 and June 2024 involved comprehensive testing and evaluation, considering factors such as performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
