London: The UK has signed a £52 million ($70 million) contract with Germany to acquire a new generation of mobile artillery capable of firing while on the move and striking targets up to 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) away. This agreement marks a significant step in the defense collaboration between the two countries.

According to Anadolu Agency, the British army will receive an Early Capability Demonstrator (ECD) version of the RCH 155 artillery system. Additionally, two platforms will be delivered to Germany for joint testing. This deal is part of the broader Trinity House agreement, a landmark defense pact signed in October 2024, which committed the UK and Germany to closer military collaboration.

The RCH 155 is set to be the British army's long-term Mobile Fires Platform. It follows the temporary use of 14 Archer artillery systems, which were introduced after the UK donated its AS90 guns to Ukraine. Unlike traditional artillery that requires a stationary setup before firing, the RCH 155's mobility allows forces to strike quickly and relocate, minimizing vulnerability to enemy counterfire.

UK Minister for Defense Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, emphasized the system's benefits, reflecting on lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine. "The British Army will soon have new artillery that can fire on the move," Pollard stated. "This builds on lessons from Ukraine, enabling our Army to hit targets 70km away and move fast away from returning fire so they can fire again."

Pollard further highlighted the critical importance of speed and mobility in modern warfare, as demonstrated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The UK and Germany will also share test data and facilities during the development phase, which is expected to accelerate procurement timelines and reduce overall costs.