Estonia has taken delivery of a second shipment of CAESAR 155 mm self-propelled howitzers from French defense manufacturer KNDS France. The Estonian Ministry of Defence announced the arrival of six additional units on August 6, finalizing the initial batch of twelve systems agreed under a contract signed in June 2024.
The CAESAR systems mounted on 6×6 Sherpa truck chassis—are part of Estonia’s broader effort to strengthen its ground-based firepower and align more closely with NATO artillery standards. The systems are now being fielded by the 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion of the Estonian Defence Forces (EDF), which was established as part of the country’s growing division structure.
The first shipment of six units was delivered in late January 2025, just six months after the contract signing. The agreement with KNDS includes options for additional purchases depending on future requirements, although the total contract value has not been made public.
The CAESAR howitzer is equipped with a 155 mm/52-caliber gun, capable of firing up to six rounds per minute and striking targets up to 40 kilometers away, depending on the ammunition. Each unit carries 18 rounds and features a hydraulic deployment system allowing for rapid set-up and repositioning—critical in reducing exposure to counter-battery fire.
In terms of mobility, the system can travel up to 600 kilometers on a single refuel, with a top speed of 90 km/h. It can cross obstacles, navigate slopes exceeding 40 percent, and ford water up to 1.2 meters deep. The crew cabin accommodates up to five personnel and can be fitted with Level 2 armor for protection against small arms fire and shell fragments.
The artillery units are supported by digital fire control systems and GPS-based positioning and are compatible with NATO C4I networks, facilitating integration with other platforms and command units.
Following the initial handover, the Estonian military launched a seven-week training program for conscripts, culminating in tactical live-fire exercises. The training aims to ensure operational readiness as the new systems are phased into regular service.
According to officials, the procurement reflects both a response to heightened regional security dynamics and Estonia’s intent to modernize its artillery capabilities. The CAESAR’s track record in international operations and its compatibility with NATO standards were key factors in its selection.
The howitzers delivered since January 2025 now bring the EDF’s CAESAR fleet to its full contracted strength of twelve units.
Reservists from the Estonian Artillery Battalion conducting live-fire exercises with CAESAR (MoD Estonia)