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Ukraine Finances Acquisition of 12 New CAESAR Howitzers from KNDS.
During an industrial forum in Kyiv, France confirmed a new contract with the Franco-German company KNDS for the purchase of 12 CAESAR self-propelled howitzers, designated for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The announcement was made by French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu, who confirmed that Ukraine would finance the purchase, reaffirming France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Used in various operational theaters, from Iraq to Ukraine, this self-propelled howitzer is recognized for its efficiency in counter-battery scenarios due to its mobility and rapid-fire system (Picture source: Ukrainian Army)
The CAESAR, developed by Nexter Systems, is a 155mm truck-mounted self-propelled howitzer combining mobility and firepower. Designed to replace traditional towed artillery systems, it is equipped with a 155mm/52-caliber gun capable of firing up to six rounds per minute, with a maximum range of 42 kilometers using base bleed shells. Typically mounted on a Renault Sherpa 10 6x6 chassis, the CAESAR can also be adapted to other chassis as per client requirements.
This system is valued for its rapid deployment capabilities, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h on roads and offering operational flexibility on varied terrain. It includes an advanced fire control system, enabling quick adjustments and repositioning after each shot to reduce counter-battery risks. The CAESAR Mk2 model, introduced in 2024, features enhanced protection, a more powerful engine, and modern electronics, improving its adaptation to current military needs. Used in various operational theaters, from Iraq to Ukraine, this self-propelled howitzer is recognized for its efficiency in counter-battery scenarios due to its mobility and rapid-fire system.
Before this agreement, Ukraine had already acquired six CAESAR units in October 2023, which joined the 18 units previously transferred by the French Army and the 12 purchased directly from KNDS. The addition of these twelve new CAESARs is part of a broader plan to transfer up to 72 self-propelled howitzers, with €50 million in funding from the Ukraine Support Fund.
This initiative forms part of a wider military assistance program launched in January 2024, under the name “Artillery Coalition for Ukraine.” The project aims to provide short-term military support to Ukraine while establishing a foundation for Ukrainian artillery production through ambitious industrial partnerships.
As part of this expanded cooperation, KNDS has established a new subsidiary in Ukraine, KNDS Ukraine LLC, in response to an initiative launched in March by French and German Defense Ministers Sébastien Lecornu and Boris Pistorius. This subsidiary seeks to strengthen cooperation between the defense industry and Ukrainian institutions, equipping local infrastructure with tools necessary for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of KNDS equipment, including Leopard 1 and 2 tanks, CAESAR artillery systems, 6x6 AMX-10 RC armored vehicles, PzH 2000 howitzers, and the Gepard anti-aircraft artillery system. Additionally, KNDS and Ukrainian industry plan to collaborate on local production of 155mm ammunition and spare parts through advanced additive manufacturing technologies
The CAESAR delivery program also includes accelerated production to reach the target of 78 artillery pieces by the end of 2024 (Picture source: Ukrainian Army)
It was also announced that France would train 2,100 Ukrainian recruits, notably on CAESAR systems, armored vehicles, and other weaponry, as part of expanded support for Ukraine. The CAESAR artillery, mounted on a wheeled chassis, is highly regarded for its mobility and rapid-fire capabilities, making it a valuable asset for Ukrainian military operations. This CAESAR delivery program also includes accelerated production to reach the target of 78 artillery pieces by the end of 2024, with the initial twelve units financed by France through a €50 million allocation, and additional Ukrainian funding for six units to bolster Ukraine’s modernization efforts.
The deployment of these new artillery capabilities within Ukrainian forces is complemented by contributions from other European nations. Recently, Belgium announced it would contribute three additional CAESAR howitzers as part of a €12 million project, pending approval by its Council of Ministers. Luxembourg has also ordered a 155mm artillery unit for Ukrainian forces. These initiatives underscore the impact of the Artillery Coalition for Ukraine in coordinating military and logistical support across Europe. The project aims to meet immediate artillery needs while building a solid industrial network for Ukraine’s long-term defense capabilities.