July 30, 2022

Nexter to deliver additional 18 CAESAR self-propelled howitzers to French Army

By Defence Industry Europe / Nexter

French Army has decided to order a 18 additional CAESAR Mk I self-propelled howitzers from Nexter. — Produced by Nexter CAESAR Mk I is the first version of this 155 mm artillery system mounted on a truck chassis. Photo: Nexter

On July 13th, Nexter was notified by the French Ministry of the Armed Froces trough the DGA agency for the order for new CAESAR self-propelled howitzers. The systems will be delivered to the French Army by summer 2024 at the latest. Nexter, together with the DGA, have demonstrated great responsiveness in setting up the production launch of 18 CAESAR systems within a few weeks. This accelerated procedure is in line with a wartime economy.

In order to allow a rapid availability while awaiting the entry into service of the CAESAR Mk II which will progressively equip the army’s artillery regiments from 2026 onwards, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces this time chosen the CAESAR Mk I artillery systems, Nexter wrote in press release.

Produced by Nexter CAESAR Mk I is the first version of this 155 mm artillery system mounted on a truck chassis. Boing the lightest in class (18 t), it has a low logistical weight and demonstrates high tactical, operational and strategic mobility.

The CAESAR Mk I is characterized by a fast battery start up (less than one minute), a rate of fire of 6 rounds/minute and a fast resupply (18 rounds/minute). CAESAR has been selected – apart France – by several NATO’s member countries: Denmark, Czech Republic, Belgium and Lithuania.