The Lithuanian National Defense Ministry has signed a contract with France and KNDS FR for the purchase of Caesar Mk 2 self-propelled artillery.
The newly signed contract is worth approximately 252 million Euros and is the second contract signed with the French counterparts for the purchase of the 155/52 mm cannon armed wheeled SPG. The first contract signed in 2022 was for the supply of 18 Caesar Mk 2 or NG units.
Modifications of the Caesar Mk 2
The modernized platform of the Caesar Mk 2 version, which Lithuania also contributed to its development, is characterized by the adoption of a reinforced armored cabin, a more powerful engine, advanced control systems, and increased resilience in complex combat situations. These improvements have been implemented by KNDS FR in light of the war experience of the Ukrainian artillery, which widely uses this weapon system against Russian targets.
The contract includes the supply to Lithuania of a complete package of integrated logistical support, training, simulators, and spare parts.
In addition, an industrial cooperation agreement has been concluded, according to which KNDS FR will invest 12 million Euros in the construction and equipment of repair workshops in Lithuania for the Caesars.
Lithuania Becomes the Second Major User of the Caesar Mk 2
It’s interesting to note that the Lithuanian National Defense Ministry stated that with the acquisition of the second batch of Caesars, Lithuania will become the second country, after France, to have the most Caesar Mk 2 self-propelled artillery units, thus exceeding Belgium, which has ordered a total of 28 units in two tranches.
Although the Vilnius Defense Ministry did not state the quantity ordered, according to French sources the second batch would consist of 30 Caesar Mk 2 systems; hence the coherence of the previous Lithuanian statement on the future consistency of the line in order of magnitude.
The program will be funded by resorting to SAFE or Security Action For Europe, the extraordinary measure desired by the European Commission to stimulate military industrial growth within the Union and to facilitate the re-arming of member countries by partly supporting the financial burdens with loans at a favorable rate of 3% repayable over a maximum period of 45 years.
The Caesar Mk II units from the first and second batch of the Defense Forces will be able to use 155 mm caliber ammunition that, starting 2027, will be produced by the plant currently under construction in Lithuania.
Lithuania has joined the framework agreement stipulated by the French DGA with KNDS FR for the joint purchase of Caesar Mk II SPGs, training systems, spare parts, and technical-logistical support.
Source: Lithuanian National Defense Ministry
Photo credit: @KNDS France
