Czech Republic Secures 52 Cutting-Edge CAESAR 8×8 Units from Nexter

Czech Defense Minister Lubomír Metnar formalized an agreement for the procurement of 52 CAESAR self-propelled artillery units in an 8×8 wheel configuration, in the presence of French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly and Nicolas Chamussy, CEO of Nexter Group. With this substantial order, the Czech Republic establishes itself as the third European client and the seventh global user of CAESAR. With more than 350 units ordered domestically and internationally, CAESAR stands as a benchmark in the wheeled artillery systems sector.

A strengthening alliance

Following the sale of 19 CAESAR 8×8 units to Denmark mounted on Tatra Trucks chassis and the delivery of 6×6 TITUS armored vehicles to the Czech Army, manufactured under license with the Czechoslovak Group (CSG), collaboration between Nexter and the Czech defense sector is advancing through a comprehensive artillery initiative. Besides Tatra Trucks, which provides the chassis, the contract outlines the participation of various CSG Group enterprises: Excalibur Army is tasked with assembling the CAESARs destined for the Czech Republic, Tatra Defence Vehicles fabricates the armored cab locally, and RETIA integrates the communication capabilities and apparatus associated with the artillery fire control system. The collaboration also encompasses ammunition, primarily with STV and Explosia, to facilitate local sourcing of conventional rounds and modular charges. Specialized munitions such as complex shells or munitions with insensitive explosives will be delivered by Nexter’s munitions division.

An advanced, reliable, and durable artillery solution

The CAESAR is a 155mm (52 caliber) self-propelled artillery piece operational since 2008. This armament system, developed by Nexter, serves as the principal weaponry for the French army’s artillery divisions along with numerous foreign armed forces choosing this durable, high-efficiency artillery. Engineered for direct troop support or extended engagement, it has demonstrated its effectiveness in various overseas operations. Its exceptional performance positions Nexter as a leading authority in land-based artillery.

By opting for the CAESAR 8×8 configuration, the Czech Ministry of Defense has selected a system ideally suited for high-intensity warfare. This configuration of the CAESAR accommodates 36 rounds, ensuring significant ammunition availability. Additionally, resupply can be accomplished at an accelerated pace (three minutes compared to ten for its fully automated rivals). Due to its lightweight design, the CAESAR 8×8 exhibits lower fuel consumption than heavy tracked howitzers, which is a considerable benefit in high-intensity combat scenarios where the fluidity of logistics is impeded by long-range artillery. Ultimately, the CAESAR is noted for its superior performance during both active and inactive scenarios.

Nicolas Chamussy, CEO of Nexter Group, commends the Czech Republic’s choice to incorporate this “innovative and tested artillery system recognized for its exceptional reliability. Following the launch of the TITUS program in 2019, this further acquisition confirms the quality of collaboration between Nexter and the Czech defense industry. Thanks to this new achievement, Nexter continues to enhance the consolidation of the European defense industrial landscape.”