France receives new CAESAR howitzers to replace those sent to Ukraine.

France has recently taken significant steps to strengthen and modernize its military arsenal in response to the defense support provided to Ukraine. Sebastien Lecornu, the Minister of the Armed Forces, announced the integration of new CAESAR self-propelled howitzers into the French military, replacing those sent to Ukraine. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the country's military capabilities in the face of current global security challenges.
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6X6 self-propelled Howitzer CAESAR is equipped with an artillery system 155mm gun. (Picture source: Wikimedia)

The production process for these artillery systems has seen a significant increase, with the production rate doubled. This increased efficiency is the result of the 'war economy' approach promoted by President Emmanuel Macron, enabling Nexter ( KNDS), the French manufacturer, to reduce the production time of CAESAR howitzers from 30 to 15 months, a notable improvement since the beginning of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

The CAESAR, designed by Nexter Systems in France, is an advanced mobile artillery system used by several countries, including France, Indonesia, Thailand, and Ukraine. Its main armament is a 155mm/52 caliber gun, capable of firing a range of ammunition. With its ability to use standard projectiles, the CAESAR can reach targets up to 40 kilometers, and this range extends to 42 kilometers with Extended Range Full Bore ammunition.

In terms of protection, the standard CAESAR offers an unprotected cabin, with the possibility of upgrading to provide level 2 ballistic protection and level 2 mine protection, as well as protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The CAESAR is designed to be lightweight and mobile, weighing less than 18,000 kg. This mobility is enhanced by its ability to reach speeds of up to 90 km/h on roads and 50 km/h off-road. Its design also allows for significant autonomy, with a range of 600 kilometers.

The system includes various technological accessories to improve its performance and precision. It is equipped with an inertial navigation system for land navigation and gun-laying, compatible with GPS. A muzzle velocity radar and a ballistic computer are included, the latter being adaptable to any fire control system. Additionally, an auxiliary power unit and various maintenance equipment, such as spare wheels and a winch, are provided.

The CAESAR can carry up to 18 rounds onboard and is operated by a crew of 3 to 5 soldiers. Its dimensions are as follows: a length of 9.94 meters, a width of 2.55 meters, and a height of 3.2 meters.

In addition to the classic CAESAR howitzers, France also plans to deploy the CAESAR NG (New Generation), an improved version with advanced technical features. The CAESAR NG stands out for its increased mobility, rapid firing capability, and greater accuracy thanks to its advanced guidance system. It is equipped with a 155mm gun, capable of firing at distances up to 40 kilometers with standard ammunition and up to 55 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles. The CAESAR NG also features an automatic loading system, reducing preparation time for firing and increasing operational efficiency.

France's contribution to the war effort in Ukraine is not limited to CAESAR howitzers. The country has provided a wide range of military equipment, including armored personnel carriers, armored reconnaissance vehicles, surface-to-air and anti-aircraft missiles, rocket launchers, cruise missiles, anti-tank missiles, boats, and an anti-aircraft missile system. Additionally, essential equipment such as bulletproof vests, night-vision goggles, and helmets have also been supplied.