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Bulgaria Plans to Purchase French CAESAR Howitzers to Modernize Its Armed Forces.
Bulgaria has announced its intention to acquire French-made CAESAR self-propelled howitzers, as revealed by the country's Defence Minister, Atanas Zapryanov. This decision follows a question raised by Ivaylo Mirchev, a Member of Parliament from the pro-European PP-DB coalition, regarding Bulgaria's participation in EU defense procurement projects, particularly under the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP).
The CAESAR self-propelled artillery system is a 155mm, 52-caliber howitzer designed to meet the needs of modern mobile and high-performance artillery. (Picture source: KNDS)
Minister Zapryanov expressed that Bulgaria's participation in the EDIDP has already borne fruit, with notable successes in two key projects: one aimed at acquiring IRIS-T air defense systems in collaboration with Germany, and the other concerning the acquisition of CAESAR systems from France. While the IRIS-T project has already been approved by the European Commission, the CAESAR system remains on the reserve list of projects, awaiting further developments.
The CAESAR systems are intended to replace the Soviet-era Gvozdika 122mm self-propelled howitzers currently in service in Bulgaria. This acquisition is part of a broader initiative to modernize Bulgaria’s armed forces, which still rely on outdated Soviet equipment. As part of these modernization efforts, Bulgaria recently approved an investment of over 180 million euros for the purchase of advanced air defense missile systems, including an IRIS-T SLM unit. This acquisition is in line with Bulgaria's strategy to replace its old Soviet-made S-300 missile systems with more modern solutions.
The CAESAR self-propelled artillery system is a 155mm, 52-caliber howitzer designed to meet the needs of modern mobile and high-performance artillery. Developed in France, it is used by several countries, including Belgium, France, and Lithuania. This system offers great flexibility and remarkable precision thanks to its cutting-edge equipment, including a digital fire control system that enables ballistic computation and automatic aiming. The CAESAR is also equipped with a muzzle velocity radar that collects real-time projectile data, optimizing shots and reducing the risk of errors.
The secure communication system, based on the CONTACT radio, allows the CAESAR to maintain reliable links with other units in combat situations. Additionally, the vehicle can be equipped with a Thales BARAGE electronic jammer, providing electronic warfare capabilities to disrupt enemy communications. The CAESAR also features an automatic hydraulic laying system, which enables precise targeting adjustments for optimal shooting, an essential feature for rapid and effective deployment.
In terms of protection, the CAESAR offers STANAG 2-level armor, ensuring resistance against small arms fire, artillery splinters, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This protection is crucial in combat environments where mobility and personnel safety are paramount. The vehicle is designed for a standard crew of five, although it can operate with a minimum of three crew members.
The CAESAR is mounted on a 26,700 kg truck chassis, capable of speeds ranging from 80 to 100 km/h on roads, with a range of 600 km. Its dimensions are suited for both mobility and stability in the field, with a length of 10 meters, a width of 2.55 meters, and a height of 3.26 meters. This self-propelled artillery system thus combines high mobility, top-level firing precision, and enhanced protection, making it an essential tool for modern armed forces.
With these defense investments, Bulgaria aims to reach 2.5% of its GDP dedicated to defense spending over the next three years. This continued focus on defense modernization is critical as the country seeks to enhance its military capabilities to face current and future security challenges. While Bulgaria faces competition from American defense companies, its defense procurements have seen a growing number of contracts with European suppliers, particularly from Germany and France.
Bulgaria’s modernization efforts are part of a broader trend among NATO member states to replace outdated Soviet-era military equipment with more advanced Western systems. The planned purchase of the CAESAR howitzers is expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s artillery capabilities, aligning with Bulgaria’s ongoing efforts to modernize and reinforce its defense posture within the EU and NATO.