Estonian Defence Forces complete first live-fire training with newly acquired CAESAR howitzers

The training involved conscript teams who began weapons instruction just two months ago and were able to accurately engage targets nearly seven kilometres away. According to Lieutenant Colonel Rauno Viitmann, commander of the 3rd Artillery Battalion, “The first phase of bringing CAESARs into service is now complete. Some further modifications to the system will still be carried out in Estonia.”

The live-fire drill followed a tactical exercise that demonstrated the soldiers’ ability to learn the system quickly. “During initial firings, we focus heavily on safety, with officers and instructors supervising every action closely — speed is not yet the priority,” said Lt Col Viitmann.

He praised the professionalism and dedication of the battalion’s regular personnel, crediting their efforts for the smooth adoption of the new artillery. “I was very satisfied with the future core force’s skills today — introducing a new system inevitably means long, demanding workdays,” he added.

Junior Sergeant Joonatan Pajuväli, commander of one of the teams, described the experience as intense and rewarding. “We’ve practised the firing process extensively in dry runs, and today we saw that training really does make perfect — from taking up positions to executing fire orders and withdrawing efficiently,” he said.

Pajuväli noted the unique responsibility that comes with being among the first conscripts to operate the new system. “We get to experience what this machine is capable of and contribute to finding the best ways to use it in Estonia,” he said.

The CAESAR MK1 is a 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer capable of striking targets over 40 kilometres away while offering rapid mobility and deployment. Its compatibility with standard NATO ammunition and straightforward training process make it a valuable asset for modern artillery units.

Source: Estonian Defence Forces.