It's good for Latvia and it's good for Sweden and it will strengthen NATO's ability to deter and defend on the eastern flank. It's also an expression of a common cooperation between Sweden and Latvia where we have had a battalion stationed since earlier, says Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M) to TT.
The 18 artillery pieces from BAE Systems Bofors in Karlskoga are to be delivered in 2026, but before that, Latvian soldiers will train together with Swedish soldiers to be fully familiar with the system when it is delivered.
How much the deal is worth, Pål Jonson does not want to say since the agreement has not yet been signed, but he describes it as "comprehensive" and an important success for BAE Systems Bofors.
According to the defense minister, it is positive that a fourth country is now joining the Archer family. The system is already used in addition to Sweden by Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
It means that we can share development costs for the system, which is beneficial for all parties, says Pål Jonson.
Can there be more Archer deals?
We are certainly sure that there are several countries interested in the Archer system.
Facts: Archer
TT
Archer is a self-propelled artillery system with eight-meter-long barrels mounted on trucks. It is manufactured by Bofors in Karlskoga and has been used by the Swedish defense since 2013. Archer can quickly move, quickly fire and has great precision. The maximum firing range is 30–50 kilometers. Each Archer piece is manned by 3-4 operators.:
