The CAESAR MK2 is a 155mm / 52-calibre self-propelled howitzer that includes reinforced ballistic protection and a new Volvo engine. It can be operated by a crew of three to five personnel | Photo: KNDS
Lithuania has signed a contract for the acquisition of 30 CAESAR 6×6 MkII artillery systems, expanding its future fleet to 48 units. The agreement was concluded on December 10 at the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence in Vilnius, attended by Deputy Minister of Defence Vitaliia Zumerienė and France’s ambassador to Lithuania, Lucie Stepanyan.
Deliveries of the new systems will begin in the first half of 2027, with Lithuania aiming to field a full CAESAR MkII-equipped artillery division by 2030. The latest order follows Lithuania’s 2022 procurement of 18 CAESAR systems and makes the country the second-largest user of the MkII variant after France.
According to KNDS, the acquisition reflects both Lithuanian confidence in the system and broader efforts to strengthen European defence cooperation. The contract also includes the establishment of an operational readiness maintenance centre in Lithuania, intended to support local industrial participation and long-term sustainment of the artillery fleet.
The CAESAR MkII is an upgraded version of the combat-proven CAESAR MkI, featuring the same 155 mm/52-calibre weapon system but with enhancements including improved engine power and an armoured cabin. KNDS states that the revised cabin offers increased protection against mines, improvised explosive devices, artillery fragments and remotely operated munitions—threats highlighted in recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine. The system also incorporates a redesigned digital architecture to improve interoperability, cybersecurity and integration with fire control systems.
The MkII variant has also been ordered by France, Belgium, Slovenia and Croatia, with Bulgaria and Portugal signing letters of intent.
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