France sends Caesar tanks to Estonia
Estonia Reinforces Defense Capabilities with Delivery of Second Batch of Caesar Artillery Systems
Estonia has received the second batch of Caesar wheeled self-propelled guns, marking the completion of the contract between Estonia and French defense company Nexter (part of KNDS group). This delivery, which took place in early August, follows the first batch delivered in late January of this year.
The Caesar artillery systems, renowned for their mobility and rapid deployment capabilities, are a significant addition to Estonia's defense capabilities. These 155 mm/52 caliber wheeled self-propelled howitzers, mounted on a 6x6 Sherpa truck chassis, offer a unique combination of firepower, mobility, and quick deployment.
Each system is capable of firing up to six rounds per minute, with a maximum range of about 40 kilometers using standard ammunition and over 50 kilometers with advanced munitions. The systems carry 18 rounds and feature a hydraulic deployment system that allows quick repositioning in under a minute, minimizing vulnerability to counter-battery fire.
The delivery of these additional Caesar artillery systems is part of Estonia's broader efforts to modernize and enhance its defense capabilities, particularly in response to heightened regional security concerns. The Caesar howitzers, together with South Korean K9 howitzers and U.S.-made M142 HIMARS rocket launchers, will form the core of Estonia’s divisional artillery.
Estonia has operated the K9 howitzers since before 2022 and plans to expand their number alongside increasing its missile launcher capabilities. The initial operational capability for the first battery of Caesar systems was achieved in July 2025 after training exercises with reservists following theoretical and practical instruction on system operation and fire control.
The financial details of the contract were not publicly disclosed. However, the contract signed in June 2024 was for the acquisition of 12 Caesar artillery systems, delivered in two batches—the first in late January 2025 and the second in early August 2025. The agreement includes an option for additional units, potentially increasing Estonia's fleet beyond the initial 12 systems.
The arrival of these additional Caesar artillery systems was announced by the Estonian Ministry of Defense. With this latest delivery, Estonia now has a total of twelve Caesar artillery systems, further strengthening its artillery firepower, mobility, and battlefield readiness amid regional security challenges.
The recent delivery of the second batch of Caesar artillery systems to Estonia marks a significant step in the country's efforts to modernize its defense capabilities, especially in light of escalating regional security concerns. This acquisition, financed through a contract with French defense company Nexter, is anticipated to boost the country's firepower within the aerospace and finance sectors, as the Caesar howitzers form an integral part of Estonia’s divisional artillery.
