The Estonian Defense Forces has received the first batch of six Caesar self-propelled howitzers.
A deal for 12 Caesar MK1s was signed in the summer of 2024 between the Estonian and French defense procurement agencies and KNDS France.
It was a joint procurement with the French government, with the option of additional purchases in the future.
Although the procurement cost has not been disclosed, a Caesar is estimated to cost $4.3 million.
To Be Assigned to New Battalion
The next batch of six guns is expected to arrive by the end of this summer.
The newly-established 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion operating under the command of the Estonian Division will be assigned the 155 mm truck cannon.
“It is a pleasure to confirm that the first Caesar self-propelled howitzers have been handed over to the Estonian Defence Forces,” Strategic Category Manager (Armaments) at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments Ramil Lipp said.
“This indirect fire weapon allows units to relocate quickly over a distance of 600 kilometers -373 miles] on a single refueling, and its standard caliber supports compatibility with various NATO munitions,” he added.
Features
The Estonian artillery currently consists of 24 K9 Thunder self-propelled guns.
Unlike the tracked K9, the Caesar is a 6×6 wheeled platform, offering greater mobility.
It can strike targets at a distance of up to 42 kilometers (26 miles) with standard shells and up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) with rocket-assisted projectiles.
The cannon can fire at a rate of six rounds per minute and is deployable and ready to fire within 60 seconds.
“The Caesars increase firepower and reaction speed of the Estonian division, enabling support for units across the country in various situations when needed,” Estonian Defence Forces Lieutenant Colonel Rauno Viitmann said.
“Both conscripts and reservists will operate the self-propelled howitzers — conscript training will begin in the coming weeks, and reservist training exercises are planned for the summer.”
