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KNDS Tests CAESAR 8x8 Howitzer Range in Poland for Potential Ammunition Production.
In September 2024, KNDS, the European group formed by the alliance between Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter, conducted significant trials of its 155mm ammunition to test the range and accuracy of the CAESAR 8x8 howitzer. During these tests at the Ustka firing range in Poland, the CAESAR 8x8, equipped with KNDS Ammo shells, achieved firing distances exceeding 42 kilometers. This performance not only demonstrates the howitzer's ability to accurately reach distant targets but also highlights KNDS's technical expertise in optimizing the pairing between cannon and ammunition.
Beyond this technical demonstration, KNDS sees Poland as a strategic partner for developing European ammunition production capabilities (Picture source: KNDS)
The CAESAR 8x8 is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer developed by the French company Nexter Systems, now part of KNDS in partnership with Germany's Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). As a modernized version of the wheeled CAESAR howitzer, this 8x8 model meets contemporary operational requirements for mobility and firepower. Mounted on a T-815 military chassis designed by Tatra, it is powered by a V8 turbo diesel engine generating 410 horsepower, enabling a maximum road speed of 100 km/h.
Its armament system features a 155mm/L52 caliber cannon, similar to the 6x6 version, but with an automatic loading system that allows for a firing rate of 6 rounds per minute. Alongside its accuracy, the CAESAR 8x8 includes a computerized fire control system and a thermal camera for direct firing, giving it the capability to operate independently or in coordination with an artillery command post.
The CAESAR 8x8 can fire a wide range of 155mm ammunition, including high-explosive, illuminating, and smoke rounds, as well as the smart BONUS munition designed to engage armored enemy vehicles. With a maximum range of 42 km using ERFB (Extended Range Full Bore) rounds and up to 55 km with VLAP (Velocity-enhanced Long-range Artillery Projectile) rounds, it is highly effective for long-range operations.
Currently used by countries such as Denmark, Ukraine, and more recently France, the CAESAR 8x8 is known for its adaptability, as it can be mounted on various military chassis depending on client requirements. Nexter also offers an armored cabin version, providing ballistic protection for the crew against small arms fire and mine explosions. This flexibility and proven capability in high-intensity operations make the CAESAR 8x8 a widely utilized artillery solution within NATO forces.
Beyond this technical demonstration, KNDS sees Poland as a strategic partner for developing European ammunition production capabilities. With its industrial assets, Poland represents a favorable environment for new manufacturing capacities. KNDS is ready to offer its comprehensive expertise in 155mm ammunition production, including shells, propellant charges, fuzes, and primers, thus supporting the growth of this industry in Poland. KNDS ammunition, already validated for effectiveness and accuracy in the Ukrainian conflict, has been used on various 155mm/52 caliber self-propelled howitzer systems such as the PzH 2000, K9, and Archer.
With over 600 CAESAR 155mm/52-cal howitzers delivered or in production, KNDS offers a range of artillery solutions widely deployed within NATO, proving their effectiveness in high-intensity operations. The resilience and performance of these artillery systems in extreme combat contexts underscore KNDS's ability to meet the most demanding operational needs. KNDS aims to support Polish artillery development programs to strengthen Europe’s eastern flank, thus addressing the region's security concerns.