Estonian Defense Forces Receives First Batch of Caesar Howitzers
The Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) have officially received their first shipment of six Caesar self-propelled howitzers. This delivery marks a significant milestone following the agreement signed in the summer of 2024 for a total of 12 Caesar MK1 units. The deal was forged between the Estonian Center for Defense Investments, the French Directorate General of Armament, and KNDS France, representing a collaborative procurement effort with the French government that includes options for future purchases.
While the exact procurement costs remain undisclosed, estimates suggest that each Caesar howitzer comes with a price tag of approximately $4.3 million. The EDF is expecting an additional batch of six howitzers to arrive by the end of summer, which will bolster their artillery capabilities.
New Artillery Battalion Established
The newly formed 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion will be designated to operate these advanced 155 mm truck cannons, enhancing the artillery division under the command of the Estonian military. Ramil Lipp, Strategic Category Manager of Armaments at the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments, expressed his enthusiasm about the delivery, noting the operational advantages of the Caesar howitzers.
“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,” Lipp stated, highlighting the strategic benefits these howitzers bring to the Estonian forces.
Superior Mobility and Firepower
The Estonian artillery currently includes 24 K9 Thunder self-propelled guns, but the Caesar’s 6×6 wheeled platform offers enhanced mobility compared to the tracked K9. This mobility is crucial for modern battlefield dynamics, allowing the EDF to respond swiftly to threats.
The Caesar howitzers can engage targets up to 42 kilometers (26 miles) away with standard shells and extend that range to 55 kilometers (34 miles) when using rocket-assisted projectiles. Furthermore, the artillery can fire six rounds per minute and can be deployed and ready to fire within just 60 seconds.
Enhanced Operational Capabilities
Lieutenant Colonel Rauno Viitmann, project officer at the Estonian Defense Forces, emphasized the impact of the CAESAR howitzers on the division’s operational capabilities. “The CAESARs increase firepower and reaction speed of the Estonian division, enabling support for units across the country in various situations when needed,” he remarked.
With the upcoming training programs for both conscripts and reservists, the integration of these self-propelled howitzers will commence soon. Training for conscripts is set to begin in the coming weeks, while reservist training exercises are scheduled for the summer, ensuring that the EDF is well-prepared to utilize this advanced artillery system.
