On May 27, coinciding with the prestigious IDET 2025 defense exhibition in Brno, KNDS (formerly KMW+Nexter Defense Systems) made a landmark announcement that underscores both technological advancement and industrial collaboration within Europe’s defense sector. The company confirmed the commencement of serial production of the Czech variant of the CAESAR® 8×8 self-propelled howitzer, with final assembly set to begin at Excalibur Army in early June. This milestone marks a significant step forward not only for the Czech Republic’s armed forces but also for regional defense cooperation and NATO’s collective artillery modernization efforts. The Czech Ministry of Defence has placed an order for 62 units of the CAESAR® 8×8 system, with first deliveries scheduled for 2026. Already, two prototypes are ready to undergo rigorous military trials conducted by the Army of the Czech Republic (ACR) this summer. These trials will validate the performance and reliability of the system under operational conditions, ensuring it meets the stringent requirements of modern battlefield scenarios. In preparation, gun crews and maintenance personnel have received comprehensive training in France, underscoring the depth of transnational collaboration embedded in this program.
At the heart of the project lies a robust framework of industrial cooperation between KNDS and its Czech partners. Final assembly of the CAESAR® 8×8 systems will take place at Excalibur Army’s facilities, while other key components will be sourced from local manufacturers. Retia will supply communication equipment and fire control system hardware, while Tatra Defence Vehicles and Tatra Trucks will contribute their expertise in designing and manufacturing the cabin and chassis. Notably, 40% of the CAESAR® 8×8 will be produced locally—a deliberate move aimed at bolstering the Czech domestic industrial base. Furthermore, ongoing cooperation with STV is paving the way for the certification of Czech-made 155mm ammunition, further enhancing national sovereignty in critical munitions supply chains. One of the most innovative aspects of the deal is the inclusion of the Mixed Reality Crew Trainer (MRCT), a cutting-edge solution designed to revolutionize crew training for the CAESAR® system. By leveraging mixed reality technology, the MRCT enables entire crews to collaboratively train without taking actual vehicles out of service. This capability ensures maximum operational readiness while minimizing downtime—a crucial advantage in high-tempo combat environments.
The CAESAR®, short for Camion Équipé d’un Système d’Artillerie (Truck Equipped with an Artillery System), represents one of the most versatile and advanced self-propelled artillery systems in the world today. Developed initially by GIAT Industries—now part of KNDS France—the CAESAR® has earned acclaim for its ability to deliver precision strikes over vast distances. Mounted on either a 6×6 or 8×8 truck chassis, the system combines mobility, firepower, and survivability into a single platform. Its autonomous weapon network integrates an inertial navigation system and ballistic computer, enabling accurate targeting beyond 40 kilometers using standard Extended Range, Full Bore (ERFB) ammunition. When equipped with rocket-assisted or smart munitions, the range extends to over 55 kilometers, making it a formidable asset on the modern battlefield. For the Czech variant, KNDS opted for the Tatra 817 8×8 chassis, which offers superior mobility compared to the traditional 6×6 configuration. With a gross vehicle weight of approximately 30 tonnes, the CAESAR® 8×8 features a powerful 410 hp diesel engine and carries up to 36 rounds of ammunition. It comes standard with an unarmored forward-control four-person cabin, though a fully armored option is available depending on mission requirements. First unveiled by Nexter at DSEI 2015, the CAESAR® 8×8 builds upon the proven success of its predecessors while introducing enhancements tailored to meet evolving threats and operational demands.
Beyond its technical specifications, the acquisition of the CAESAR® 8×8 holds strategic importance for the Czech Republic and NATO as a whole. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise across Europe, particularly along NATO’s eastern flank, the need for modernized artillery capabilities cannot be overstated. The CAESAR® 8×8 fills this gap effectively, offering rapid deployment, long-range precision fires, and seamless integration with allied forces. Moreover, the emphasis on local production aligns with broader European initiatives to reduce dependency on non-EU suppliers and strengthen the continent’s defense industrial ecosystem. The Czech CAESAR® 8×8 program exemplifies a harmonious blend of innovation, partnership, and strategic foresight. From the meticulous preparation of prototypes and training programs to the establishment of a resilient domestic supply chain, every aspect of the project reflects a commitment to excellence. As the first deliveries approach in 2026, the Czech Army will gain not just a state-of-the-art artillery system but also a symbol of its growing role within NATO’s collective security architecture. For KNDS and its Czech partners, this endeavor represents more than a business opportunity—it is a testament to what can be achieved through shared vision and unwavering dedication to defense excellence.
