Representatives of KNDS and its local industrial partner Advanced Defense System, known as ADS Sdn Bhd, formalised the order on 16 June. The contract includes the granting of a licence providing for technology transfer and assembly of the systems in Malaysia.
KNDS said the order marks a milestone in its commitment alongside the Malaysian Armed Forces. The company said the acquisition will expand Malaysia’s artillery capabilities.
The CAESAR is described by KNDS as a global reference in wheeled artillery and proven in high-intensity combat. The company said 800 systems have already been ordered or delivered worldwide.
The self-propelled system is designed to provide mobility, rate of fire and accuracy. KNDS said it can fire six rounds in less than one minute at a range of 40 kilometres.
The system can also relocate in less than two and a half minutes. KNDS said this provides a major strategic advantage.
The acquisition reflects the Malaysian Armed Forces’ confidence in KNDS’s expertise, according to the company. It also reflects confidence in ADS Sdn Bhd’s ability to locally integrate and maintain the CAESAR system.
KNDS said its presence in Malaysia forms part of a long-term partnership with the country’s authorities. The cooperation reached an earlier milestone in 2018 with a strategic partnership covering the supply and local assembly of 105LG lightweight towed artillery guns.
KNDS said the 105LG programme demonstrated its ability to support partners in developing sovereign capabilities and long-term industrial projects. The company said the 105LG gun provides mobility and rapid repositioning, helping ensure discretion and survivability in complex operational environments.
Malaysia’s order covers 18 CAESAR systems in a regimental configuration. KNDS said the programme directly contributes to strengthening the capabilities of the Malaysian Armed Forces.
The contract includes know-how transfer and advanced industrial localisation with ADS. KNDS said this aligns with Malaysia’s National Defence Industry Policy, which aims to develop an autonomous, sustainable and resilient national defence industry.
“We are particularly proud to support the Malaysian Army through the delivery of world-class artillery systems that meet the highest operational standards,” said Nicolas Groult, Chief Executive Officer of KNDS France. “This new milestone in KNDS’s history in Malaysia reflects our determination to support our partners over the long term in developing their defence capabilities and to meet their expectations in terms of industrial localization.”
