Nexter, the leading French land defense systems manufacturer has been awarded a contract by the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) for the supply of 15 (plus 6 as an option) 8×8 CAESAR® artillery systems to the Danish Army.
The CAESAR® 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer has been constantly deployed by the French Forces in combat operations since its entry into service in 2009: in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Mali and currently in Iraq. The CAESAR® is recognized worldwide as striking the best balance between the simplicity of towed artillery and the mobility and survivability of a self-propelled system.
It provides customers with a highly flexible, deployable and affordable full spectrum solution for indirect fire support. Not only is the CAESAR® very accurate, it also has the lowest maintenance costs on the market for a mobile artillery system. Over 300 CAESAR® systems have already been ordered by 5 different countries.
With the 8×8 CAESAR® configuration, Nexter offers an artillery system that meets the current and future requirements of the Danish army with an improved operational autonomy and a platform offering significant growth potential for further adaptation.
The involvement of Danish industry in the fulfilment of the contract will be essential, in particular for the 10-year sustainment of the Danish CAESAR® systems. The acquisition of CAESAR® by the Danish Army will also naturally provide with opportunities to further deepen the already strong cooperation between the Danish and French armies.
“We are proud to support such a longstanding ally of the French Army and member of the NATO alliance” commented Stephane Mayer, CEO of the Nexter Group. He also added “This first success for the 8×8 CAESAR® configuration confirms the relevance of our vision and strengthens our dedication to meeting the fast-moving and specific needs of our customers”.
Nexter is the leading French land defense systems manufacturer, and third European player in the ammunition sector. It is dedicated to meeting the needs of the land forces of Nations on an international scale. The scope of its business includes the supply of weapon systems and ammunition for air and naval forces.
Nexter also provides systems and protection solutions for the homeland security market. The group continues to apply its international development policy with 60% of the order intake in 2016 intended for the export market. In France, Nexter is fully committed to meeting the objectives of the SCORPION program, through the renovation of the Leclerc tank and the development of the future GRIFFON and JAGUAR vehicles within the GME (temporary business venture between Nexter, Thales and Renault Trucks Defense).
Nexter's 2016 turnover amounted to €771 million, of which 19% is allocated to Research and Development activities. The group's range of products includes ARAVIS®, TITUS® and VBCI armored vehicles, CAESAR®, TRAJAN® and 105LG1 artillery systems, smart ammunition (BONUS), as well as customer service and support.
