France sends Caesar salads to Estonia
Estonia Receives Final Batch of Caesar Artillery Systems from France
Estonia has received the final batch of Caesar artillery systems from France, bringing the total number of these powerful weapons to twelve. The delivery, made by the French Ministry of Defense, completes the contract for Caesar artillery systems between the two countries.
The Caesar artillery systems are wheeled self-propelled guns, mounted on 6x6 Sherpa truck chassis. They offer high mobility, rapid deployment, and significant firepower, featuring a 155 mm/52 caliber gun capable of firing up to six rounds per minute. With an effective range of over 40 km, these systems are a formidable addition to Estonia's defense capabilities.
The first six artillery systems were delivered to Estonia in January of this year, and the second batch was delivered in August. The introduction of these howitzers marks a modernization effort for Estonia’s artillery forces and enhances NATO interoperability and regional defense, responding to increased Baltic security concerns.
Alongside the Caesar artillery systems, Estonia operates 24 South Korean K9 howitzers (with 12 more expected by 2026) and six U.S.-made M142 HIMARS systems, with plans to double HIMARS units. These systems together represent the core artillery capabilities of Estonia’s ground forces.
Initial operational capability for the first CAESAR battery was achieved in July during training exercises, which included both reservists and live-fire drills, following comprehensive theoretical and practical training on system operation and fire control.
The contract signed in June 2024 with Nexter (a KNDS group subsidiary) initially ordered 12 CAESAR howitzers, with an option to acquire up to 24 howitzers total, allowing Estonia to expand its artillery capabilities as needed. This delivery reflects Estonia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its artillery and strengthen its military capabilities amid regional tensions.
The delivery of the Caesar artillery systems is a testament to the strong military cooperation between France and Estonia. The strategic significance of these howitzers extends beyond Estonia, enhancing NATO's collective defense capabilities and supporting a robust response to regional security concerns.
- The Caesar artillery systems, with their high mobility, rapid deployment, and firepower, have significantly modernized Estonia's defense capabilities, advancing their technology in artillery forces.
- The delivery of the Caesar artillery systems, being a formidable addition to Estonia's artillery arsenal, not only strengthens its military capabilities but also contributes to NATO's collective defense technology, bolstering a robust response to regional security concerns.
