The Swedish company is said to have delayed submitting its final offer, prompting the Ministry of Defense to simultaneously explore market options and continue negotiations with another contender. According to the Ministry of Defense, the Czech company offers operationally equivalent "Morana" systems, but under more favorable price and delivery terms. Publicly available information indicates that the "Morana" systems were first demonstrated in 2022 and are still undergoing active testing, while the "Archer" systems have been produced for over ten years and are already supplied to the Swedish army. The Secretary of State for the Ministry of Defense acknowledged that the cost of offers from the Swedish and Czech companies differs significantly. Publicly available information indicates that the self-propelled howitzer "Morana" was first publicly presented in 2022. The howitzer is equipped with a weapon that meets NATO standards. The maximum firing range exceeds 41 kilometers. It is also equipped with a remotely controlled combat module with a 12.7-millimeter machine gun for self-defense. The system is mounted on an 8x8 "Tatra Force" wheeled chassis. The aiming and loading of the weapon are fully automated. The vehicle has space for 45 shells. The automatic loading system allows for up to six shots in the first minute. The system can prepare for firing in about 40 seconds after stopping and can leave the position just as quickly to avoid enemy return fire. Combat tasks can be performed by a crew of three without leaving the protected and airtight cabin. The cost of one howitzer is several million euros.
