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Ukrainian soldiers train on Denmark's CAESAR 8x8 howitzers for enhanced artillery power of Ukraine.
Copenhagen, Denmark - On June 6, 2023, reports emerged of around 100 members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces undergoing training in Denmark to operate CAESAR self-propelled howitzers. Pictures and videos posted on social media platforms on July 7, 2023, show these Ukrainian soldiers being trained on the 8x8 version of the CAESAR 155mm self-propelled howitzer, previously owned by Denmark's Defense Forces.
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Denmark to donate 19 CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine. (Picture source Social Network VK)
Denmark's decision to provide 19 French-made CAESAR 8x8 artillery pieces to Ukraine was announced earlier this year, marking a significant addition to Ukraine's artillery arsenal. These howitzers were initially procured by Denmark from the French company, Nexter Systems. The first batch of 15 units was acquired in May 2017, and the second, an additional four units, in October 2019.
Danish Defense Minister Jakob Ellemann-Jensen noted the donation of these artillery pieces to Ukraine was in response to the "urgent needs" of the Ukrainian Armed Forces for artillery weapons. The decision underscores Denmark's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense capability amid regional security concerns.
Notably, this is not Ukraine's first experience with the CAESAR self-propelled howitzers. Ukraine's Armed Forces already have in service 30 CAESAR howitzers in a 6x6 configuration, also produced by Nexter Systems, and 15 TRF1 155mm towed guns.
The integration of the 8x8 CAESAR howitzers into the Ukrainian army will further enhance their artillery capabilities. This recent move by Denmark continues a trend of international assistance and support for Ukraine, reinforcing the global recognition of the country's urgent defense needs.
As the training proceeds, the world will be watching the unfolding partnership between Ukraine and Denmark, and the implications for the regional security landscape.
The CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzer is a powerful mobile artillery system developed by the French defense company, Nexter Systems. It's an advanced version of the earlier 6x6 configuration and is designed for rapid deployment and high mobility in a wide range of battlefield scenarios.
Ukrainian soldiers train in Denmark to operate the CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzer. (Picture source VK social network)
The CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzer is a powerful mobile artillery system developed by the French defense company, Nexter Systems. It's an advanced version of the earlier 6x6 configuration and is designed for rapid deployment and high mobility in a wide range of battlefield scenarios.
The CAESAR 8x8 is mounted on a Tatra chassis, a renowned Czech manufacturer famous for its heavy-duty trucks. The Tatra 8x8 chassis provides excellent off-road performance, which enhances the CAESAR's mobility in various terrains. It also improves the system's survivability by enabling it to quickly move into a firing position, launch its munitions, and then swiftly redeploy to another location to avoid counter-battery fire.
The 8x8 version of the CAESAR is armed with a 155mm/52 cal gun, which is capable of firing standard NATO ammunition. It can fire at a rate of six rounds per minute and has a maximum firing range of approximately 42 kilometers with standard ammunition and up to 55 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles.
The CAESAR 8x8 can carry a total of 30 rounds for the main gun and has an automatic loading system, allowing for rapid firing.
The vehicle can be operated by a crew of five, with three staying with the vehicle during firing operations while the other two can operate from a distance if necessary, enhancing crew safety. The system is designed to be airlifted and can be transported by C-130, A400M, or similar cargo aircraft, contributing to its rapid deployment capabilities.
Its advanced fire control system and battlefield management system give it a high level of accuracy and efficiency, making the CAESAR 8x8 a formidable addition to any modern army's artillery force.