Defence Forces to use option for 155 mm self-propelled howitzers

NordenBladet — Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen has approved the Defence Forces’ procurement proposal and has authorised the Defence Forces Logistics Command to procure five additional armoured howitzers in 2022.

This is related to the procurement of 155 mm howitzers in 2017. The armoured howitzers were procured in 2017 from KOTRA, the trade promotion agency of the Republic of Korea. The contract included an additional procurement opportunity for armoured howitzers, their supplies and spare parts. The total price of the contract for the additional procurement is EUR 30 million (excluding VAT).

In addition to the armoured howitzers, the contract also includes spare parts and supplies. The procurement will enable the support of operational troops with long-range artillery equipment with good off-road and off-road mobility. The procurement will partly replace the artillery materiel that is becoming obsolete in the 2020s and 2030s and will be decommissioned.

Well-suited for conscript training, an armoured howitzer of 155 mm will provide Finland’s conscription army with modern capabilities in a cost-effective way. While included in the defence administration’s planned budget frame, the procurement was prepared under the leadership of the Ministry of Defence in cooperation with the Army Command and the Defence Forces Logistics Command.

Source: Valtioneuvosto.fi