Estonia’s defence procurement authority has concluded an agreement with France and KNDS for the purchase of 12 additional CAESAR self-propelled howitzer systems.
This follows an earlier contract signed in summer 2024 for 12 Caesar units, with the first deliveries completed in early 2025. The newly ordered howitzers are expected to arrive later this year.
Assigned to a New Artillery Battalion
The 155mm wheeled systems will equip the newly formed 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion, operating under the direct command of the Estonian Division.
At present, Estonia fields 24 mobile artillery systems, all of them K9 Thunder tracked self-propelled howitzers acquired from South Korea. In contrast to the tracked K9 platform, the Caesar features a wheeled configuration, providing enhanced road mobility and rapid redeployment capability.
While the total program cost has not been publicly disclosed, Estonian officials have underscored the importance of accelerated deliveries.
Caesar Capabilities
The Caesar Mk1 indirect fire system is engineered for high operational mobility, enabling artillery units to reposition swiftly over extended distances and strike targets beyond 40 kilometers (25 miles).
The system can fire up to six rounds per minute and transition from movement to firing readiness in under 60 seconds.
Fully compatible with NATO-standard 155mm ammunition, Caesar integrates digital fire-control technology with simplified operating procedures. Its automated systems allow crews to achieve operational proficiency within weeks.
