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Czech Republic Conducts Tests on Caesar 8x8 Self-Propelled Howitzer in France Ahead of Military Integration.
The Czech Republic is advancing its artillery modernization with the first tests of the Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzer in France. Designed to meet Prague's specific operational requirements, the system is undergoing rigorous testing before officially integrating into the Czech Armed Forces. This evaluation, conducted at the production facility in France, marks the beginning of a process that will include live-fire trials before the first units are delivered to the Czech Republic by March 2025. The program aims to equip the Czech Army with 62 Caesar 8x8 howitzers by the end of 2026 to enhance artillery capabilities and interoperability with NATO.
The Czech variant of the Caesar self-propelled howitzer differs from the standard version by utilizing an 8x8 wheeled chassis instead of the traditional 6x6 configuration (Picture source: Czech Republic MoD)
The Czech Republic signed the initial contract for 52 Caesar units in September 2021, followed by an expansion in December 2022, adding 10 more howitzers. This brought the total contract value to CZK 10.3 billion (approximately $451 million). Nexter Systems is assembling the first four units in France, but the remaining 58 will be produced domestically, involving key Czech defense manufacturers. Excalibur Army is responsible for final assembly, while Tatra Trucks supplies the chassis, ensuring the Czech defense industry’s significant involvement. This partnership fosters technological transfer and enhances national maintenance capabilities, securing long-term operational sustainability.
The Czech variant of the Caesar self-propelled howitzer differs from the standard version by utilizing an 8x8 wheeled chassis instead of the traditional 6x6 configuration. This upgrade enhances mobility on rough terrain and provides increased ammunition storage capacity. Equipped with a 155mm/52-caliber gun, the Caesar 8x8 is designed to fire NATO-standard shells, reaching a range of 40 kilometers with Extended Range, Full Bore (ERFB) munitions and up to 55 kilometers when using specialized projectiles. The system incorporates an automated fire control station, reducing crew workload and increasing firing efficiency. It also integrates with advanced battlefield communication and coordination networks. Specifically, the Czech version is linked to the ADLER fire control system, allowing seamless coordination with NATO allies via the ASCA (Artillery System Coordination Activities) program. The system is further capable of Multi-Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) operations, enabling multiple shells to strike a target simultaneously, improving combat effectiveness.
Following the completion of initial tests in France, the next evaluation phase will take place in the Czech Republic. This stage will involve dynamic mobility trials and live-fire exercises to assess shooting accuracy, system reliability, and overall combat effectiveness under operational conditions. The Czech Army aims to reach initial operational capability (IOC) for Caesar by 2026, followed by full operational capability (FOC) in 2028. Beyond the howitzers themselves, the modernization initiative includes supporting assets such as command and control vehicles on Titus chassis, meteorological data collection systems, ammunition resupply trucks, and the integration of the C4ISTAR system, which enhances battlefield awareness and command coordination.
One of the key aspects of this program is the transition to NATO-standard 155mm artillery shells, replacing the outdated 152mm munitions used with the aging DANA howitzers. To ensure a stable domestic ammunition supply, STV Group will manage the production of tens of thousands of rounds by 2029. Explosia, a Czech explosives manufacturer, will supply propellant charges, while Retia is responsible for communication and targeting system components. This shift aligns the Czech Army’s artillery capabilities with NATO logistics and ensures compatibility with allied forces during joint operations.
The Caesar acquisition is part of the Czech Republic’s broader military modernization strategy, known as the Development Concept 2030. This initiative focuses on enhancing national defense capabilities while improving interoperability with NATO members. The increase in global demand for advanced artillery systems, driven largely by the conflict in Ukraine, has created supply chain pressures, particularly affecting critical components like propellant, which has seen a fivefold price increase. KNDS, the manufacturer of the Caesar, has also committed to delivering 80 units to Ukraine by the end of 2024, underscoring the system’s strategic significance in modern warfare.
The trials conducted in France represent a crucial step in the integration of the Caesar howitzer into the Czech Army. This modernization effort aims to strengthen the country’s long-range precision strike capabilities while optimizing coordination with allied forces. The upcoming testing phase in the Czech Republic, including full-scale live-fire exercises, will be critical for validating the system’s performance and preparing crews for operational deployment. The program's successful completion will significantly enhance the Czech Armed Forces’ artillery capabilities, ensuring they meet NATO standards and remain adaptable to contemporary and future battlefield requirements.