The reservists, all with previous artillery experience, successfully completed a retraining programme that culminated in live-fire drills using live ammunition in tactical scenarios. “The weapon is extremely accurate. Today we executed fire commands in a tactical situation with live rounds and received feedback from fire controllers that the second shot hit dead centre,” said Junior Lieutenant Ranno Rajaste, commander of the battery’s fire team.
Rajaste described the CAESAR system as a significant advancement over earlier artillery platforms. “Compared to my previous weapon, the towed D-30 howitzer, it’s no comparison. CAESAR is so much faster to redeploy and far more mobile, allowing us to respond to unexpected fire missions much quicker,” he added.
He also acknowledged the initial challenges of the transition. “At first, it was quite difficult to adjust – the tactics are so different, but today it was already clear that the necessary skills are in place.”
The training assembly began on 7 July and initially focused on introducing the structure, equipment, and tactics of the CAESAR battery to its new members. Training continued at the Estonian Defence Forces Central Training Area, where sub-units worked together and applied what they had learned.
The exercise culminated in live-fire drills that began on 16 July, during which the battery practised engaging targets located nearly nine kilometres away from prepared positions. In today’s battle drills, the unit demonstrated effective cooperation, tactical understanding, and confirmed that it had reached the expected level of operational readiness.
This was the third such training cycle aimed at retraining reservists who previously served in units equipped with towed howitzers. In earlier cycles, reservists were retrained to operate K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers.
Major Kaspar Põder, the lead organiser of the CAESAR training assembly, confirmed that its objectives had been met. “Reservists acquired the necessary skills quickly, their motivation is high, and they reported willingly. Proficiency and fluency can always be improved, but overall I am satisfied with the outcome. Initial combat readiness has been achieved and, if needed, Estonia has another highly capable, trained and cohesive artillery battery ready to operate.”
The CAESAR MK1 is a 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery system capable of striking targets over 40 kilometres away. Its NATO-standard calibre, automation, and simplicity enable rapid training of crews and ensure reliable long-term logistical support.
