IDET 2023: Czech army to receive 62 CAESAR 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzers.

The Czech Republic and Nexter have further solidified their relationship of trust through the procurement of 52 CAESAR 8x8 artillery systems for the Czech forces in 2021. This acquisition was supplemented in December 2022 with an additional 10 units, bringing the total number of ordered systems to 62.
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CAESAR 8x8 displayed at IDET 2023 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The contract involves multiple companies within the CSG Group, along with Tatra Trucks, which supplies the 8x8 chassis. Excalibur Army is responsible for assembling the CAESARs, Tatra Defence Vehicles produces the armored cabin locally, and RETIA integrates communication resources and equipment linked to the artillery fire control system. The partnership also encompasses ammunition, primarily provided by STV and Explosia, to ensure the local supply of conventional shells and modular charges. Nexter's ammunition unit will supply special ammunition such as complex and insensitive explosive rounds.

In January 2022, two teams of Czech howitzer specialists had convened at the French 13th Artillery Regiment. One team comprised experts from Nexter, the manufacturer of the CAESAR, while the other consisted of members from the Czech MoD Force Development Section. Together, they formed the technical council.

The Czech Army will induct 62 CAESAR 8x8 artillery systems, with the first two prototypes scheduled for delivery in 2024 for testing. The contract also includes 62 155mm ShH CAESAR CZ, a comprehensive set of simulators, service kits, training for instructors and technical staff, and a set of spare parts.

The CAESAR, which stands for "Camion Équipé d'un Système d'ARtillerie" (Truck equipped with an artillery system), is a 155 mm, 52-caliber self-propelled howitzer. It can be mounted on either a 6x6 or 8x8 truck chassis. The CAESAR 8x8 variant utilizes a modified Tatra 817 8x8 chassis, providing enhanced mobility. It features a standard forward control four-person cab, with an optional fully-armored cab. The gross vehicle weight depends on the level of armor protection, but it is approximately 30 tonnes. Powering the CAESAR is a 410 hp diesel engine, and it has a capacity of 36 rounds. Nexter introduced the CAESAR at DSEI 2015.

The CAESAR is capable of firing NATO-standard shells and is equipped with an autonomous weapon network incorporating an inertial navigation system and ballistic computer. With ERFB (Extended Range, Full Bore) ammunition with base bleed, it can accurately engage targets over 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. Furthermore, it can strike targets over 55 kilometers (34 miles) away using rocket-assisted or smart ammunition.

The CAESAR platform was developed by French defense contractor GIAT Industries (now known as Nexter) and has been exported to various countries, including Belgium, Denmark, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Ukraine, and now the Czech Republic.

62 CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzers will equip the Czech artillery (Picture source: Nexter)

Defense News May 2023