Denmark amplifies support for Ukraine with CAESAR self-propelled howitzer.

On March 12, 2024, Denmark announced a significant new military assistance package for Ukraine, marking the sixteenth instance of support since the conflict began. This latest package includes Caesar artillery systems, self-propelled 120 mm mortars, and a substantial supply of munitions, highlighting Denmark's active role as a committed donor in the conflict.
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Valued at approximately $336 million, the assistance is financed through the Ukraine Fund, showcasing transnational collaboration (Picture source: Forsvarsgalleriet )

Valued at approximately $336 million, the assistance is financed through the Ukraine Fund, showcasing transnational collaboration. Notably, the funding for Caesar artillery pieces is a joint effort with France, likely signifying a joint acquisition of 78 Caesar howitzers for Ukraine within the French initiative of the "international artillery coalition." All Caesars are expected to be produced by the end of 2024. France has notably financed the production of twelve units, contributing 50 million euros. Ukraine has also participated in this initiative, funding six more units.

The 155 mm artillery munitions supply involves cooperation with Estonia and the Czech Republic. The package also consists of 15,000 155mm artillery shells, funded by Denmark but purchased via the Czech Republic. 

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized the critical importance of this support for Ukraine's fight for freedom, noting the high demand for artillery and mortar systems in Ukraine. He stated that this donation package delivers a significant contribution by providing additional Caesar artillery systems and corresponding munitions. Poulsen also highlighted that these donations, made in collaboration with allies, send a strong signal of Denmark's unwavering support for Ukraine.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen remarked on the considerable political and economic will required to fulfill European support ambitions for Ukraine, especially regarding artillery munitions. He expressed hope that other nations would follow Denmark's lead in bolstering support for Ukraine.

The financing arrangement for this package, spanning from 2024 to 2026, amounts to more than 300 million euros, with specific allocations for each year. This support is part of Denmark's broader commitment, including the donation of F-16 fighter jets, bringing total military support to approximately 3 billion euros for the period 2022-2028. The F-16s are expected to be delivered in the summer, contingent on the completion of pilot training and infrastructure development, as stated by the Danish Defense Minister.

Funded through both national compromise and the Ukraine Fund, Denmark's contribution positions it as one of the largest European donors to Ukraine. Furthermore, Denmark is the first G7 member to sign a 10-year cooperation agreement with Ukraine, demonstrating its long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for freedom and sovereignty. This support is crucial in a context where Ukraine's struggle is deeply intertwined with the security and stability of the entire European continent.

Despite these pledges of continued support, the Ukrainian military remains significantly outmatched in terms of artillery shells and barrels.

Defense News March 2024