The Estonian Defence Forces have received the first batch of CAESAR MK1 155 mm caliber self-propelled howitzers on a 6×6 chassis, which will be assigned to the newly established 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion operating under the command of the Estonian division.
"It is a pleasure to confirm that the first CAESAR self-propelled howitzers have been handed over to the Estonian Defence Forces. We signed the contract last June, and it took just half a year for the first CAESAR howitzers to arrive in Estonia," commented Ramil Lipp, Strategic Category Manager (Armaments) at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI).
Considering the reliability and effectiveness of this weapon in various conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, it can be said that Estonia has acquired the best possible solution. "This indirect fire weapon allows units to relocate quickly over a distance of 600 km on a single refueling, and its standard caliber supports compatibility with various NATO munitions," added Lipp.
Lieutenant Colonel Rauno Viitmann, project officer for the procurement from the Estonian Defence Forces side, stated: "The CAESARs increase firepower and reaction speed of the Estonian division, enabling support for units across the country in various situations when needed. 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."
The CAESAR MK1 self-propelled howitzer is a 155 mm caliber indirect fire weapon that enables units to engage targets over 40 kilometers away and relocate quickly over long distances. The standard caliber allows the system to be used with various NATO-compatible munitions. The system's automation, combined with its relative simplicity, enables crews to be trained within a few weeks, and its widespread use in multiple countries ensures long-term logistical support and spare parts availability.
The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) signed contracts in the summer of 2024 with the French defence procurement agency DGA and the defence industry company KNDS to acquire 12 CAESAR wheeled self-propelled howitzers. The contract also includes the option to purchase additional howitzers in the future.
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