Switzerland expands 120mm mortar buy to 48 with follow-on order
Switzerland will now acquire 48 120mm self-propelled mortar systems based on the Piranha 8x8 and equipped with a RUAG Cobra ordnance. (Photo: RUAG)
Switzerland has committed to acquire an addtional batch of 120mm mortar systems based on the General Dynamics European Land Systems Piranha IV 8x8 armoured vehicle
The Swiss Federal Office for Armaments (armasuisse) has signed a contract with GDELS-Mowag for a further 16 Mörser 16 120mm mortar systems. RUAG will supply the mortar itself as a subcontractor.
This means a total of 48 mortar systems will now be procured as part of the programme.
Under the 2022 armaments programme, the Swiss Federal Parliament has approved procurement of a second tranche of the mortar systems with a value of CHF175 million. The contract also covers protected trucks for ammunition resupply and operational support.
The new contract represents the exercise of an option with GDELS-Mowag.
The 32 mortar systems in the first tranche are currently being manufactured and will be handed over between 2024 and 2025. Delivery of the additional systems planned is planned from 2026.
The mortar systems combine a Piranha IV 8x8 IFV platform with RUAG's Cobra mortar.
Switzerland approved a contract worth CHF404 million for development and production of this combination in 2016. 32 Mortar 16 platforms were originally required, as well as 12 trucks and the modification of 16 Piranha I platforms into command vehicles.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![EOS improving Slinger CUAS role as industry pushes forward]()
EOS improving Slinger CUAS role as industry pushes forward
EOS Defence Systems officially launched its Slinger anti-drone system in 2023. The system features a remote weapon station, visual sensors and a Northrop Grumman 30mm cannon with specially designed ammunition, combined with EOS’s stabilisation and pointing technology.
-
![Czech government developing a plan for air defence beyond 2030 alongside NATO integration]()
Czech government developing a plan for air defence beyond 2030 alongside NATO integration
The Czech Armed Forces is set to receive four Israeli-made SPYDER long-range missile defence systems, the first of which was delivered earlier this year. They will be a key part of the country’s multilayered air defence system.
-
![How AI and robotics drive innovation in land-based defence]()
How AI and robotics drive innovation in land-based defence
The future on the frontlines: automation and AI isn’t just about improving efficiency or driving down labour cost - for Pearson Engineering it’s everything.
-
![How do land and air defense forces defend against complex threats?]()
How do land and air defense forces defend against complex threats?
Learn how RTX systems defend against complex attacks from adversaries including hostile drones, and multi-range missiles.
