The decision followed a review of procurement costs, delivery schedules, operational performance and participation by Latvia’s defence industry. The government said Morana offered capability equivalent to Archer on more favourable commercial and delivery terms.
The Ministry of Defence began examining the market for 155 mm wheeled artillery systems in May 2024. It later entered negotiations with BAE Systems Bofors for Archer and Excalibur Army for Morana.
Latvia and Sweden signed a letter of intent in June 2025 to pursue an Archer procurement agreement. Further assessment found that the required funding and relatively long delivery schedule made the option unworkable under current defence-sector resources.
The Morana offer is expected to accelerate the expansion of Latvia’s indirect-fire capability. The new systems will equip artillery units and strengthen the country’s deterrence and defence posture.
Excalibur Army’s proposal also provides for participation by Latvia’s defence industry. The government identified local industrial involvement as a significant factor in the selection.
Riga said the decision does not change Sweden’s position as a strategic defence partner. A bilateral roadmap signed in January 2026 covers cooperation across the air, maritime and land domains, including Sweden’s presence in NATO’s multinational brigade in Latvia.
Latvia continues to procure Swedish military equipment in other areas. Its armed forces have ordered Saab Dynamics RBS 70 NG short-range air defence systems, while the Air Force received Saab Giraffe 1X surveillance radars at the end of 2025.
