The Ministry of Defence has confirmed progress on the British Army’s RCH 155 artillery programme, with efforts underway to accelerate procurement of the new mobile gun system.
In a written response to a parliamentary question from Conservative MP James Cartlidge, Minister of State Maria Eagle stated: “The Mobile Fires Platform project team will deliver the Remote Controlled Howitzer (RCH) 155 gun system this decade. The team continue to investigate opportunities to accelerate procurement and are working with industry to generate a costed proposal.”
While no specific delivery dates have yet been confirmed, the RCH 155 is considered a core element of the Army’s future capability. It offers an advanced 155mm self-propelled artillery system with a high rate of fire—up to nine rounds per minute—and increased range and accuracy for precision strikes. The platform can deliver multiple rounds in rapid succession across a full 360-degree arc and also features direct-fire capability for close-range engagements.
The RCH 155 is built on the modular Boxer armoured vehicle chassis, bringing logistical benefits through platform commonality and improved NATO interoperability.
Lieutenant General Dame Sharon Nesmith, Deputy Chief of the General Staff, said last year: “I am very proud that we have the opportunity to collaborate with Germany to develop RCH 155 as the British Army’s Mobile Fires Platform.” She added: “It not only presents an invaluable opportunity to work alongside our vital ally Germany, but also demonstrates our clear commitment to and leadership role within NATO.”
The Army’s broader modernisation strategy includes investment worth billions over the next decade, with future development priorities shaped by the ongoing Strategic Defence Review.
