Patria has made a significant advancement in military technology by unveiling a state-of-the-art mobile 155mm self-propelled artillery system tailored for the Finnish Navy’s coastal defense needs. This innovative system, known as the 52-caliber ARVE howitzer, integrates the company’s established 155 K 98 towed howitzer onto a robust Sisu E13TP 8×8 all-terrain truck, offering improved mobility and operational efficiency.
With an impressive firing range of 40 kilometers (approximately 25 miles), the ARVE howitzer demonstrates remarkable performance capabilities, able to launch three rounds in just 15 seconds and a peak of eight rounds within one minute. In its sustain mode, the system maintains a firing rate of two shells per minute, as reported by Helsinki Times. The artillery unit is equipped to carry a total of 24 rounds and requires only 90 seconds to set up and fire, while it can relocate—referred to as “scooting”—in just 45 seconds, enhancing its tactical versatility.
The ARVE is powered by a 55 HP engine, enabling it to achieve a maximum speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour. It boasts a substantial operational range, capable of traveling up to 600 kilometers (373 miles) on 400 liters of fuel, which positions it as a formidable asset in military deployments. The system currently features a manual reloading and laying system, but future improvements are being considered, including the development of an automatic version and an enhanced gun-controlled system for better operational functionality.
This new development is a crucial element of the Finnish Navy’s initiative to rearm its mobile coastal artillery capabilities, which had been diminished following the disbandment of this branch in the mid-2000s. Historically, the Finnish Navy depended on towed Soviet 152mm howitzers and various models of towed and fixed guns, such as the 130mm M-46, for coastal defense operations. The existing 130mm fixed gun, known as the 130 TK, remains operational; however, plans are underway to replace it with a more modern mobile artillery system compatible with NATO-standard 155mm rounds.
The new artillery system is intended to engage not only vessels within territorial waters and littoral zones, including Finland’s archipelagos, but also enemy forces located on land. The Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command has issued a tender for a total of 16 units, inviting competition from several international manufacturers. Among the contenders are the Swedish Archer, the French Caesar, the Slovak Zuzana, and the Israeli Atmos. This move underscores Finland’s commitment to enhancing its coastal defense capabilities in an evolving security landscape.
