At the Rio Diz Urban Park in Portugal, amidst the celebratory events of EXPO EXÉRCITO marking Portuguese Army Day, a landmark agreement was signed that cements Portugal’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities. The Framework Agreement, signed for the acquisition of the French-made CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, represents a critical milestone in Portugal’s defense modernization efforts.
The signing event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Dr. Nuno Melo, Portugal’s Minister of National Defense; the French Ambassador to Portugal, Dr. Hélène Farnaud-Defromont; the Director of International Development of the General Directorate of Armaments of France, General Diaz da Tuesta; and Portugal’s own General Director of National Defense Resources, Dr. Vasco Hilário. This procurement aligns Portugal with one of the most advanced artillery systems in contemporary warfare.
The acquisition of the CAESAR 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, produced by French defense firm KNDS, is part of Portugal’s broader initiative to modernize its field artillery arsenal. The CAESAR’s advanced capabilities — high mobility, precision, and rapid deployment — make it a pivotal asset for the Portuguese Army as it looks to enhance its operational effectiveness and meet the demands of modern military engagements.
The CAESAR artillery system is regarded as one of the most versatile and effective field artillery units available. Unlike older, stationary systems, it features a wheeled chassis that can traverse rugged terrain, allowing it to be deployed swiftly in dynamic and rapidly changing conflict zones. The CAESAR is armed with a powerful 155mm gun capable of firing both conventional and precision-guided munitions at ranges exceeding 40 kilometers. Its fire control system is also highly advanced, allowing for precise targeting and increased effectiveness in both offensive and defensive missions.
For years, the Portuguese Army has relied on the M114A1, a 155mm towed howitzer first introduced decades ago. While the M114A1 has served well, its age and design limitations have become increasingly evident in today’s complex combat environments. The M114A1 lacks the mobility required for rapid deployment and is less precise compared to modern systems. With the CAESAR acquisition, the Portuguese Army will be able to conduct operations that require swift movement and accurate firepower, which are essential for a wide range of mission types, from NATO coalition operations to domestic security support and international peacekeeping.
The CAESAR howitzer has achieved global recognition as a high-performance artillery system, particularly in recent conflicts where its reliability and effectiveness have been put to the test. Notably, the CAESAR has proven invaluable in Ukraine, where it has been a cornerstone in counter-battery operations against Russian forces. Ukrainian troops have leveraged the CAESAR’s mobility and precision to outmaneuver adversaries, moving quickly between firing points and avoiding retaliatory strikes through the “shoot and scoot” tactic. This operational flexibility has allowed Ukrainian forces to conduct highly effective counter-offensives, thereby demonstrating the artillery’s adaptability to both conventional and irregular warfare.
Portugal’s decision to adopt the CAESAR system reflects a commitment not only to replace its outdated artillery units but to invest in a proven and cutting-edge military platform. Its use in Ukraine underscores its operational advantages in high-stakes combat, further highlighting why Portugal, along with other NATO allies, is embracing such technology as a cornerstone of future military engagements.
The presence of prominent French officials at the signing ceremony emphasizes the importance of defense cooperation between Portugal and France. As the CAESAR is a flagship artillery system within the French military, its adoption by the Portuguese Army represents a strengthening of the strategic relationship between the two nations. This deal is also seen as a continuation of a shared commitment to European defense and stability. With both countries actively contributing to NATO and European defense, the CAESAR howitzer acquisition is likely to enhance interoperability between Portuguese and French forces.
Dr. Nuno Melo, Portugal’s Minister of National Defense, articulated the broader strategic implications of this acquisition, expressing confidence that the CAESAR system will significantly bolster Portugal’s capacity to respond to a variety of threats. In his remarks, Melo underscored that the CAESAR is integral to Portugal’s ongoing defense modernization initiative, designed to enable the armed forces to participate effectively in NATO missions and collaborative European defense operations.
A key factor in the decision to purchase the CAESAR was its unmatched mobility. Mounted on a six-wheel chassis, the CAESAR howitzer can traverse difficult terrains, making it highly suitable for rapid response operations. This mobility is critical in today’s operational landscape, where military forces are often required to deploy quickly in response to unpredictable threats, both within Europe and abroad.
The CAESAR’s integration into the Portuguese Army will also allow Portugal to meet the challenges of hybrid warfare, where non-state actors, cyber threats, and other unconventional tactics have redefined modern conflicts. With a self-propelled artillery unit that can be repositioned quickly and strike accurately, the Portuguese Army will be well-prepared to respond to these emerging security challenges. This move aligns with NATO’s emphasis on rapid deployability and precision engagement, making Portugal a stronger contributor to the alliance’s collective defense posture.
One of Portugal’s primary goals in acquiring the CAESAR howitzer is to align with NATO standards, ensuring that the Portuguese Army is equipped with technology capable of interoperating seamlessly with the systems of its allies. This alignment is essential in joint operations, where artillery units from different NATO members are required to coordinate effectively, often under time-sensitive conditions. The CAESAR’s advanced fire control system is compatible with NATO’s targeting systems, making it an asset for multinational exercises and real-world missions.
Dr. Vasco Hilário, Portugal’s General Director of National Defense Resources, highlighted the CAESAR’s role in enhancing the country’s defense resources and bringing Portuguese artillery capabilities in line with those of NATO’s most advanced militaries. By investing in compatible and high-performing military technology, Portugal reinforces its commitment to NATO, ensuring it can fulfill its obligations to the alliance and participate in high-readiness operations worldwide.
The acquisition of the CAESAR is part of a larger defense modernization strategy adopted by the Portuguese government, which aims to transform the country’s armed forces to meet contemporary threats. Portugal has invested in several modernization initiatives in recent years, including the acquisition of new aircraft, naval assets, and advancements in cybersecurity infrastructure. The CAESAR howitzer’s introduction into the Portuguese military arsenal is seen as a critical component of this broader initiative, bringing Portugal’s defense capabilities up to par with those of other NATO countries.
The CAESAR’s advanced targeting technology and range will enhance the Portuguese Army’s effectiveness in providing fire support to both ground and air operations, a significant boost to Portugal’s overall military capabilities. Moreover, this modern artillery will likely serve as a deterrent, showcasing Portugal’s readiness to defend itself and its allies against both conventional and asymmetric threats.
The signing of the agreement at EXPO EXÉRCITO was a powerful message of Portugal’s commitment to national defense. This event was more than a ceremonial occasion; it was a public demonstration of the country’s resolve to invest in state-of-the-art technology to ensure its armed forces remain capable and ready to face 21st-century challenges. EXPO EXÉRCITO, held annually to celebrate Portuguese Army Day, offered attendees a firsthand look at the advancements Portugal is making in defense. This year’s exhibition included live demonstrations of various military assets, giving the public a glimpse of Portugal’s growing capabilities and a transparent view into its strategic defense priorities.
The CAESAR howitzer acquisition also resonates with the Portuguese public, as it reassures citizens of the country’s military preparedness and highlights Portugal’s role as a proactive NATO member. With heightened concerns about security in Europe following recent conflicts, the Portuguese government’s investment in defense is seen as a prudent and necessary step.
As Portugal looks to the future, the CAESAR acquisition may be only the beginning of a sustained effort to transform its military forces into a modern, adaptable, and resilient defense institution. The CAESAR system is expected to be operational within the Portuguese Army in the coming years, with training programs, maintenance facilities, and logistical frameworks being established to support its deployment.
Military analysts suggest that the CAESAR’s deployment could enhance Portugal’s role in European defense, potentially paving the way for Portugal to take on greater responsibilities in joint military operations. With the CAESAR system in place, the Portuguese Army will be able to offer advanced artillery capabilities, reinforcing its position as a reliable and capable ally within NATO.
