Swedish Archer howitzer survives Russian strike with minimal damage

Ukraine received eight FH77BW Archer artillery systems from Sweden. This wheeled, self-propelled howitzer has a high degree of automation, allowing the Archer to quickly return fire after stopping and then relocate.

After halting, the howitzer requires only 30 seconds to take the first shot. It takes an additional 15 seconds to fire three rounds, and after another 30 seconds, the Archer is ready to move. The system is so rapid that the howitzer can change its position while the shells are still in the air, heading towards the target.

The FH77BW Archer can also fire in MRSI mode – firing shells at different angles so they hit the target simultaneously, intensifying the impact.

The exceptional capabilities of the Archer used by Ukrainians did not protect it from being hit this time. As seen in the footage shared by Ukrainians, the howitzer was hit in the ammunition magazine—probably by a Lancet series loitering munition or an FPV drone.

The visible damage in the footage demonstrates how well-designed the Archer system is. The ammunition is not only separated from the crew but is located as far from them as possible, in a magazine at the other end of the vehicle.

The 4-person crew of the howitzer during combat does not have direct contact with the ammunition, as it is automatically loaded from the magazine. The crew remains in the armoured, enclosed cabin during this time.

Although the Archer's design minimises the effects of a hit on the ammunition magazine, Defence 24 reports that in this instance, the magazine was likely empty or contained very few shells and propellants, as the effects of the explosion are negligible.

Despite the damage to the howitzer, the crew likely did not sustain serious injuries, and the weapon can be repaired and returned to service.