Breaking News: Portugal Signs An Agreement with France for Acquisition of CAESAR 155mm Howitzers.

On October 26, 2024, a significant milestone in Portugal's military modernization efforts was marked with the signing of a Framework Agreement for the acquisition of the French-made CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer. The ceremony took place at the Rio Diz Urban Park, as part of EXPO EXÉRCITO, an exhibition held during the Portuguese Army Day Celebrations. The event was presided over by the Portuguese Minister of National Defense, Dr. Nuno Melo, and attended by several high-ranking officials, including the French Ambassador to Portugal, Dr. Hélène Farnaud-Defromont, the Director of International Development of the General Directorate of Armaments of the French Republic, General Diaz da Tuesta, and Portugal's General Director of National Defense Resources, Dr. Vasco Hilário.
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The CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, renowned for its mobility and precision, offers a firing range exceeding 40 km and advanced fire control systems. Its success in modern conflicts, including in Ukraine, highlights its effectiveness in rapid deployment and long-range artillery support. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The acquisition of the CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, produced by French defense manufacturer KNDS (previously) Nexter Systems, is a key step in the ongoing modernization of the Portuguese Army's field artillery capabilities. This cutting-edge howitzer will provide a significant boost to the Army's fire support, enhancing both range and precision in artillery operations. The CAESAR artillerysystem is renowned for its mobility, versatility, and accuracy, making it a highly effective asset in both conventional and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

The Portuguese Army currently operates the M114A1 towed howitzer, a 155mm artillery system that has been in service for several decades. While reliable, the M114A1 lacks the advanced mobility and modern targeting systems offered by newer artillery platforms. The acquisition of the Caesar Howitzer will mark a significant upgrade from this older system, providing Portugal with enhanced operational flexibility, faster deployment capabilities, and improved accuracy in fire support missions.

The CAESAR howitzer is a highly regarded system that has gained international recognition for its performance in modern conflicts. Mounted on a wheeled chassis, the Caesar offers exceptional mobility compared to tracked or towed howitzers, enabling rapid deployment across various terrains. Its 155mm gun can fire both standard and precision-guided munitions, with a range exceeding 40 kilometers. The system is also equipped with an advanced fire control system that allows for quick and accurate targeting, making it a formidable weapon on the battlefield.

One of the most notable recent successes of the CAESAR howitzer has been its deployment in Ukraine. Since the start of the conflict, Ukraine has relied on Western-supplied artillery systems, and the CAESAR has been a standout performer. Its ability to deliver precision strikes at long range, combined with its mobility, has allowed Ukrainian forces to conduct highly effective counter-battery fire and disrupt Russian artillery operations. The CAESAR’s quick deployment and ability to "shoot and scoot" – firing and moving to a new position before enemy forces can respond – have proven invaluable in the dynamic and fast-moving battles of the Ukrainian conflict. This success has further elevated the Caesar's reputation as one of the premier artillery systems in the world today.

The signing of this agreement also underscores the deepening defense cooperation between Portugal and France. As the CAESAR howitzer is a flagship artillery system of the French military, its adoption by the Portuguese Army represents not only a step towards modernizing Portugal's military capabilities but also a reinforcement of the long-standing defense ties between the two countries. The presence of key French officials, including the French Ambassador and General Diaz da Tuesta, further highlighted the importance of this collaboration.

Portuguese Minister Nuno Melo emphasized the strategic significance of the acquisition during his remarks, noting that this artillery system will substantially improve the Portuguese Army’s operational readiness and ability to engage in joint NATO and European defense operations. He also highlighted how this acquisition fits into the broader context of Portugal’s defense modernization strategy, which aims to ensure that the armed forces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

The CAESAR howitzer will enhance the Portuguese Army’s field artillery capabilities. Equipped with advanced fire control systems, the CAESAR can deliver precise, long-range fire support while maintaining a high degree of mobility due to its wheeled chassis. This mobility is particularly important for rapid deployment and the ability to operate in challenging terrains, aligning with Portugal's current operational needs, which include contributions to NATO and other international peacekeeping efforts.

Incorporating the CAESAR howitzer into the Portuguese Army’s arsenal is part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s defense forces. This initiative reflects Portugal's commitment to meeting modern security challenges, ensuring its armed forces are capable of addressing both conventional threats and emerging, asymmetric challenges. The CAESAR’s integration into the Portuguese Army is expected to significantly enhance the military's capability in providing fire support, especially in joint and multinational operations.

The acquisition of the CAESAR Howitzer is a landmark event for the Portuguese artillery forces, marking a new chapter in the modernization of its firepower capabilities. The CAESAR’s advanced features, including its range of over 40 kilometers and its ability to fire six rounds per minute, will greatly increase the effectiveness of Portugal’s artillery units on the battlefield.

The Portuguese Army's continued investment in upgrading its military systems ensures that it remains a capable and reliable partner within NATO, the European Union, and international defense coalitions. With the signing of this framework arrangement, Portugal is signaling its intent to not only maintain but enhance its military readiness and operational effectiveness.

This ceremony at EXPO EXÉRCITO was not only a celebration of Portugal’s Army Day but also a public demonstration of the country’s commitment to investing in defense modernization. By acquiring the CAESAR howitzer, Portugal is ensuring that its military remains at the forefront of modern warfare technology, ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.