Royal Thai Army CAESAR 155 mm self-propelled howitzer static fire training. The 6 CAESAR is operated by Royal Thailand Army (RTA) from 2010, ordered in 2006, mounted on the Sherpa6x6 truck chassis. In April 2011, the Royal Thai Army used the CAESAR against Cambodia’s BM-21, Thai Army claimed that they destroyed more than 2 BM-21 systems. Systems for the French Army and the Thai Army are mounted on the Sherpa 5 6×6 truck chassis from Renault Trucks Defense.
The CAESAR is a wheeled, 155mm 52-caliber self-propelled howitzer. The CAESAR platform was developed by the former GIAT Industries (now known as Nexter) and is operated by the French, Indonesian, Saudi Arabian, and Thai militaries. 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. It can be transported by C-130 or A400M, and has a firing range of approximately 42 km using an Extended Range, Full Bore (ERFB) shell, and more than 50 km using rocket assisted shells. The system is integrated with a fully computerized system, providing an automatic control. During Eurosatory 2006, CAESAR was exhibited with an automated laying system based on the SIGMA 30 inertial navigation system.
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 kg (880 pounds) and raise the price by 4-5 percent.
