Over 40,000 Caesar artillery systems available in Ukraine: report
Ukraine Conflict: French Caesars Deployed, Czech Republic and Portugal Follow Suit
The escalating conflict in Ukraine has seen French Caesar howitzers joining the Ukrainian army's ranks, contributing to over 40,000 shells fired in just two months. One French-produced model was destroyed in combat.
While Denmark has passed on its Caesar 8x8s to Ukraine, in favor of Israeli ATMOS, other nations, including the Czech Republic, are considering similar moves. The Czech Republic initially ordered 52 French Caesars for €335 million, and recently committed to an additional ten for €73 million. The Czech army plans to incorporate these cannons from 2026, replacing the DANAs in its arsenal.
Meanwhile, Portugal is also allocating resources to bolster its artillery, finding Caesar 8x8s a valuable addition to its military prowess.
The French Caesars have proven devastatingly effective on the battlefield, with each heavyweight vehicle averaging almost 2,100 shell firings since April 2023. The French government's strategic commitment to the region is further demonstrated by their preparedness to deploy troops on Polish soil should the need arise.
France is also supporting Ukraine through intelligence sharing and collaborative efforts with other European allies, such as Britain. However, past delays in system deliveries have weakened Ukraine's air defense, though recent and upcoming aircraft deliveries aim to remedy this.
The specifics of additional military orders from the Czech Republic or Portugal related to French military systems for Ukraine remain uncertain at this time. Nevertheless, Ukraine is reportedly pursuing acquisitions of various fighter jets from several European nations, signifying broader multinational support.
In this context, France's military assistance represents a substantial but strategic engagement, focusing on enhancing Ukraine's air combat capabilities and forging stronger military relationships.
The escalating conflict in Ukraine has prompted other countries to consider supplying military hardware similar to the French Caesar howitzers, with Portugal also aiming to bolster its artillery and possibly acquire Caesar 8x8s. The political landscape is witnessing a shift as general news covers nations like the Czech Republic increasing their Caesar orders and potentially joining France in supporting Ukraine.