The CAESAR is a wheeled, 155mm 52-caliber self-propelled howitzer. It holds 18 rounds and is
typically operated by a crew of five, though if necessary, the CAESAR can be operated by as few as
three persons.[5] It can be transported by C-130 or A400M, and has a firing range of approximately
42 kilometres (26 mi) using an Extended Range, Full Bore (ERFB) shell, and more than 50
kilometres (31 mi) using rocket assisted shells. The system is integrated with a fully computerized
system, providing automatic control. During Eurosatory 2006, CAESAR was exhibited with an
automated laying system based on the SIGMA 30 inertial navigation system.[citation needed]
Nexter is developing an armored cab for the CAESAR in response to demand for more protection for
the crew. The additional armor will protect against IEDs and roadside bombs, anti-vehicle mines and
155 mm shells landing as close as five meters (16 feet) away from the vehicle. It can be added to
the cabs of existing CAESARs. Heavier armor will increase its weight by 400 kilograms (880 lb) and
raise the price by 4–5 percent.[6]
Indonesian CAESAR self-propelled howitzer
In February 2022, Nexter was awarded a contract by the French Direction générale de
l'armement (DGA) for the development of the CAESAR 6x6 Mark II new generation (NG) artillery
system. The Mark II features a new chassis with a more powerful 460 hp engine and new automatic
gearbox, new fire control software, and a Level 2 mine and ballistic armored cabin. The contract
begins a four-year development phase, after which the Mark II will enter production. In 2024, the
DGA will choose whether to launch production of 109 new-built Mark IIs or to procure 33 new
vehicles while retrofitting the 76 CAESARs already in service.[7]
CAESAR 8x8[edit]
On 16 September 2015 at DSEI 2015, Nexter unveiled the CAESAR 8x8 which features a high level
of mobility ensured by a modified Tatra T-815 8x8 chassis.[8] The 8x8 CAESAR is fitted as standard
with an unarmoured forward control four-person cab, but one of the options is a fully armour
protected cab. Gross vehicle weight would depend on the level of armour protection, but is about 30
tonnes. It is powered by a 410 hp diesel engine.[9] It holds 36 rounds.[10]