Swedish minister responds to Latvia's rejection of Archer artillery systems
Sweden's Defence Minister Pål Jonson has expressed regret over Latvia's decision not to buy Swedish Archer artillery systems, while respecting the government's choice. Latvia will instead purchase Czech-made Morana self-propelled howitzers.
Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson commented on social media on Latvia's decision to abandon plans to buy Swedish-made 155mm wheeled Archer artillery systems. He said the comprehensive offer would have delivered long-term strategic and industrial benefits to both countries, including deeper cooperation in training, maintenance and logistics. The minister stressed that Sweden respects the Latvian government's decision and that the two countries remain close as neighbours and NATO allies.
Background of the decision
Latvia's Ministry of Defence began market research on new artillery systems in May 2024, negotiating with both Sweden's BAE Systems Bofors and the Czech company Excalibur Army. In June 2025 a letter of intent was signed with Sweden regarding an Archer purchase, though it created no legal obligations for either side. The ministry says the Swedish company delayed submitting its final offer, so talks continued in parallel with the Czech side.
On Tuesday, Defence Minister Raivis Melnis presented the final proposal to the government, which decided to halt further steps toward buying Archer and instead proceed with the Czech-made Morana system. Deputy state secretary Airis Rikveilis explained that delivery timelines and costs were decisive — the Czech offer was more favourable on both counts — even though Morana is still undergoing testing, while Archer has been in production and service with the Swedish army for over a decade.
Rikveilis emphasized that Sweden remains one of Latvia's most important defence partners, citing active cooperation on procurement of short-range air defence, airspace surveillance radars, command systems and anti-tank weapons, as well as Sweden's participation in NATO's multinational brigade in Latvia.
The Morana howitzer is mounted on a Tatra Force 8x8 chassis, features a NATO-standard gun with a range exceeding 41 kilometres, and has an automated loading system. First deliveries to Latvia are planned for next year. In 2027 Latvia's National Armed Forces will also receive Himars rocket systems.
