France begins production of Caesar 8x8 howitzers for Czech Republic’s artillery modernization.

As reported by iRozhlas on November 29, 2024, KNDS has completed the first two Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers for the Czech Army under a contract for 62 units. These howitzers are undergoing testing at the production facility in France, with firing trials scheduled before their delivery to the Czech Republic by March 2025. All units are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026, as part of the Czech Republic’s effort to modernize its artillery capabilities.
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While the first four units are being assembled in France by Nexter Systems, the remaining 58 will be manufactured in the Czech Republic. (Picture source: Český rozhlas)

The contract initially included 52 Caesar systems ordered in September 2021 and was expanded with an additional 10 units in December 2022, raising the total contract value to CZK 10.3 billion (approximately $451 million). While the first four units are being assembled in France by Nexter Systems, the remaining 58 will be manufactured in the Czech Republic. Domestic companies involved include Excalibur Army, which handles assembly, and Tatra Trucks, which supplies the 8x8 chassis.

The Czech variant of the Caesar howitzer is mounted on a Tatra 8x8 chassis, which allows for improved mobility and a higher ammunition capacity compared to the standard 6x6 version. It is equipped with a 155mm/52-caliber gun capable of firing NATO-standard shells up to 40 kilometers using Extended Range, Full Bore (ERFB) ammunition and up to 55 kilometers with specialized projectiles. The system also features automated fire control and communication systems.

The modernization initiative includes the integration of the Caesar system with the ADLER automated fire control system and NATO’s Program of Artillery System Coordination Activities (ASCA) to enable centralized fire support and data sharing. The howitzers are capable of Multi-Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) operations. Supporting systems include command posts on Titus chassis, meteorological tools, ammunition vehicles, and C4ISTAR integration to improve connectivity and operational capabilities.

Production of the Caesar systems emphasizes local industry involvement, with 40% of the work undertaken by Czech companies. Retia supplies communication systems, Explosia provides ammunition, and STV Group is tasked with delivering tens of thousands of 155mm shells by 2029. These shells will replace the older 152mm munitions used with the DANA howitzers and align with NATO standards.

Initial testing and integration of the Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers, originally planned for 2023, were delayed to 2024 due to supply chain adjustments. The tests, which will be conducted in the Czech Republic, include evaluations of firing precision and operational reliability. The Czech Armed Forces plan to achieve initial operational capability by 2026 and full operational capability by 2028. The additional 10 Caesar units will enable the creation of an Active Reserve fire battery to account for potential losses during wartime.

The modernization initiative also includes logistical upgrades, such as new ammunition vehicles for faster resupply and expanded radar reconnaissance capabilities provided by the Arthur system for counter-battery operations. The Czech Armed Forces are transitioning to NATO-standard ammunition with initial supplies from Nexter Systems, followed by local production managed by STV Group. The modernization effort is intended to replace the aging 152mm DANA howitzers and improve interoperability with NATO forces.

KNDS has also confirmed plans to deliver 80 Caesar systems to Ukraine by the end of 2024. Ukrainian forces have adapted to the operation and maintenance of these systems through training and spare parts provided by KNDS. Global demand for artillery systems has increased due to the conflict in Ukraine, but production has been constrained by raw material shortages and rising costs, including a fivefold increase in gunpowder prices, as noted by Hervé Le Breton, head of the KNDS ammunition plant.

The Czech Armed Forces’ modernization program is part of the Development Concept 2030, aimed at aligning national defense capabilities with NATO requirements. It includes efforts to enhance radar detection ranges beyond 40 kilometers, improve operational readiness in degraded environments, and implement autonomous systems for decentralized operations. This initiative seeks to address lessons from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine while meeting NATO interoperability standards.