Belgium Approves the Purchase of 19 Additional French CAESAR NG 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzers.

Brussels, Belgium, December 10, 2023 – In a significant move to enhance its military firepower, the Belgian government, following the advice of the Belgian Defense Minister, has approved the purchase of an additional 19 CAESAR NG (New Generation) 155mm self-propelled howitzers. This acquisition aims to significantly bolster the Belgian Army's artillery capabilities, which currently include only 120 mm mortars and towed 105 mm cannons. With this latest procurement, the total number of CAESAR NG systems in the Belgian armed forces will rise to 28, comprising 24 operational units and 4 units designated for military training.
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The CAESAR NG is an advanced variant of the previous version of the French-made CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer. (Picture source French MoD)

Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder had previously expanded this partnership in 2022, with the purchase of 9 CAESAR NG long-range precision artillery systems. These systems, scheduled for delivery in 2027, represent a key component of the Belgian military’s modernization efforts.

This new acquisition is part of a broader initiative to modernize and strengthen the motorized brigade of the ground component. In this context, a strategic partnership with France, known as CaMo (Motorized Capability), was signed in November 2018. This partnership ensures that Belgian and French forces will operate using the same equipment and systems, leading to high interoperability and a stronger European defense.

The new 155 mm artillery vehicles will provide long-range precision artillery with significant tactical and strategic mobility for the Belgian armed forces. The addition of these 19 systems will further develop the motorized capability of the Belgian ground force, filling gaps in indirect fire support capabilities, both in the European context and within NATO.

The CAESAR NG (New Generation) represents an advanced version of the previous CAESAR, maintaining the same 155 mm/52 caliber cannon, but now mounted on an enhanced truck chassis. This gun boasts a maximum range of 40 km using standard ammunition. In February 2022, the French firm Nexter was awarded a contract to develop this upgraded 6X6 CAESAR NG artillery system for the French Army. The production of the CAESAR NG for Belgium will proceed concurrently with that for the French forces, ensuring consistent interoperability and collaborative efficiency between the two nations' armies.

The upgraded design of the 6X6 CAESAR NG retains the original layout but incorporates significant advancements in protection and mobility. A notable enhancement is the integration of a robust 460 hp engine, a substantial upgrade from the 260 hp engine used in the earlier model. Additionally, this model features a new automatic transmission system and an updated chassis designed by the French company ARQUUS.

Enhanced armor has been added to the CAESAR NG's truck cabin, providing improved resistance to small arms fire and the impact of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices).

Further advancements in the CAESAR NG include sophisticated firing control software, the CONTACT radio communication system, and the BARAGE communication jamming system, developed by the French company Thales. These upgrades collectively enhance the system's operational effectiveness and safety.

Defense News December 2023