Nexter has secured a contract to develop the Caesar 6X6 Mark II new generation (NG) artillery system.
The contract was awarded by the programme’s prime contractor French Direction générale de l’armement (DGA).
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As agreed, the contract will include an initial four-year development and qualification phase, following which, the artillery system will enter production.
The new Caesars 6X6 Mark II will have the same configuration as the existing systems, with key improvements in crew protection and mobility.
The new artillery systems will feature a level two mine and ballistic armoured cabin to offer protection against improvised explosive devices, and small-calibre ammunition.
It will be powered by a new engine, and will have a new automatic gearbox and chassis.
The Caesar 6X6 Mark II will also have the latest version of fire control software, with a cad capable of accommodating the new CONTACT radio.
The total number of artillery systems to be manufactured is yet to be finalised.
According to a Nexter statement, the DGA may choose to advance with the production of 109 new systems, or manufacture 33 new systems, and retrofit 76 Caesars currently in service.
The decision is expected in 2024.
In total, 109 systems are expected to be delivered to the French Army’s artillery regiments by 2031.
Nexter will also provide an initial fixed-price support service for the artillery systems for two years.
