“IDET 2025: Pioneering Czech CAESARs Set to Roll Off the Production Line This June”
- The 19 CAESAR® 8x8s that have been operational with the Armed Forces of Ukraine since mid-2023 have discharged over 40,000 rounds.
- KNDS France is playing a pivotal role in enhancing the Czech defense sector through numerous collaborations for the domestic manufacturing and logistical assistance of CAESAR® 8×8 and the accreditation of locally produced 155mm ammunition.
- At IDET, KNDS France will present its most recent advancements, ranging from Loitering Munitions to Counter-Drone Systems and 120mm tank munitions for LEO II.
The initial two prototypes for the Czech army are prepared
The Czech Ministry of Defence has commissioned 62 CAESAR® 8×8 units. Initial shipments are anticipated for 2026. The first two prototypes are set to engage in military evaluations, which will be conducted by the ACR this Summer. Gun crews and maintenance staff have already undergone training in France.
In the meantime, the final assembly of the first CAESAR® 8x8s is set to commence at Excalibur Army in early June. Teams from our partner have visited KNDS in Roanne multiple times for training, ensuring they are equipped to initiate final assembly in the Czech Republic to adhere to the contractual delivery timeline and fulfill industrial collaboration obligations.
Collaboration with key partners
40% of the CAESAR® 8×8 will be manufactured locally, fortifying the native industrial infrastructure. Excalibur Army will handle the final assembly, Retia will provide communication apparatus and fire control system hardware, while Tatra Defence Vehicles and Tatra Trucks will supply the cabin and chassis. Collaboration with STV is also progressing for the certification of Czech-produced 155mm ammunition.
Instruction, artillery, loitering munitions, and upkeep: innovations fostering operational dominance
The Czech Army is set to acquire the MRCT (Mixed Reality Crew Trainer). This mixed reality tool enables an entire crew to train collaboratively on the CAESAR® system without removing a vehicle from active duty.
KNDS France is also unveiling the 105LG, the lightest 105mm towed howitzer globally, engineered for rapid response units. Capable of discharging 12 rounds per minute (or up to 20 with a 5-person team), it boasts double the firing speed of its competitors. Its lightweight, durability, and agility render it perfect for aerial assault and airborne missions.
Fully cognizant of contemporary operational difficulties, KNDS France is promoting the ARX 30, a 30mm remotely controlled weapon system. In the C-UAV version, the addition of radar to an already high-performing weapon system establishes it as one of the most progressive solutions addressing emerging aerial dangers. The French procurement agency (DGA) has already declared an order for 24 SERVAL LAD vehicles outfitted with this identical ARX 30 cannon. The ARX 30 epitomizes KNDS France’s proficiency in close-quarters counter-drone warfare. Crafted to engage various target types, its extremely high rate of fire and capacity to utilize airburst munitions make it essential in modern air defense.
The MATARIS series of loitering munitions was introduced by KNDS France in February 2025:
- MT-10 (previously IXOS): T designates the carrier’s structure, 10 for its 10 km range.
- MX-10 (previously MTO-CP): X for quadcopter configuration, 10 for its 10 km range. Already operational within the French Army.
- MV-25 (previously OSKAR): V for fixed-wing configuration, 25 indicating its 25 km range.
- MV-100 (previously LARINAE): V for fixed-wing design, 100 representing its 100 km range.
Fewer than two years elapsed between the commencement of its development and operational deployment: the MV-25 drone has been active in Ukraine since January 2025.
