On 5 August, the Finnish Army announced plans to test 155mm semi-active laser-guided artillery shells as part of a recently launched market analysis by the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command. The project remains at an early stage, with no procurement schedule yet set, although trials are expected to take place in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The outcome of the tests will determine whether Finland proceeds with purchasing such munitions, with results likely to influence the choice of system for the country’s artillery. The primary users would be artillery units operating K9 self-propelled howitzers, towed guns and, if ordered, wheeled 155mm self-propelled howitzers.
Introducing this new category of shell would enable effective and precise engagement of battlefield targets, though it would require a laser designator carried by a soldier, mounted on a vehicle or deployed by an unmanned aerial vehicle. In return, the laser guidance method offers very high accuracy in striking designated targets.