Major order for RCH155 wheeled howitzer: Rheinmetall to supply weapon systems and other components

19 December 2025 – The German Armed Forces has placed a major order with Artec GmbH, a joint venture between KNDS Germany and Rheinmetall. The RCH155 (Remote Controlled Howitzer 155 mm) wheeled howitzer is to be introduced into service. On 19 December 2025, ARTEC GmbH received an order for the first 84 RCH155 wheeled howitzers. The order is based on a framework agreement between ARTEC GmbH and the Federal Office of Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) for a total of 500 RCH155 systems, which can also be called up by other nations. The order value for ARTEC GmbH for the first 84 wheeled howitzers and associated training equipment, service and logistical support is around €1.2 billion.

Rheinmetall will supply the electrical systems, software and 155 mm weapon systems to Artec GmbH. Deliveries will begin in 2027 and are scheduled for completion in 2029. Artec GmbH is a joint venture between KNDS Germany and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. It is responsible for the Boxer vehicle family. 
The RCH 155 protected wheeled howitzer combines the firepower and range of the automatic and remotely controlled artillery gun module (AGM) with the protection and mobility of the battle-proven Boxer wheeled armoured vehicle. The fully automatic weapon system enables firing from movement. Targets can be engaged with high precision at distances of up to 40 kilometres. In addition to its rapid fire readiness, the RCH155’s strengths include its high tactical range on the road and its mobility. Compared to the Panzerhaubitze 2000, the crew could be reduced to two soldiers (commander and driver) due to the high degree of automation.

The first user of the RCH155 is Ukraine. It has directly ordered 54 RCH155s from KNDS Germany in three batches. Here, too, Rheinmetall is supplying the electrical systems, software and weapon systems to KNDS Germany. The United Kingdom also intends to procure the RCH155. The heads of government of Germany and the United Kingdom announced a corresponding cooperation agreement back in April 2024.

Photo courtesy Rheinmetall