The Indonesian government recently signed a contract with the German-French joint venture group KNDS to purchase a new batch of CAESAR self-propelled howitzers, aiming to enhance the modernization and ground combat capabilities of its armed forces while initiating local production to boost defense autonomy.

According to the military news site Army Recognition, the timing of this arms deal coincides with French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Jakarta. The Indonesian government signed a new Letter of Intent (LOI) with the KNDS group to expand procurement of the CAESAR self-propelled howitzer system and 155mm guns, while also strengthening the industrial cooperation framework, including local production, assembly, and maintenance operations in Indonesia to assist the country in enhancing its defense capabilities.

Previously, in 2012, Indonesia placed its first order for 36 units of the CAESAR Mk1 self-propelled howitzer from the French Nexter company, which is now part of the KNDS group. These units were delivered for use by the army's artillery battalion, deployed in key strategic areas to enhance the force's mobility and precision strike capabilities. In 2017, Indonesia further purchased 18 more units, bringing the total to 56, making it one of the few countries in the Indo-Pacific region deploying such advanced wheeled artillery.

The CAESAR Mk1 can be mounted on a 6X6 or 8X8 chassis, equipped with a 155mm towed howitzer, capable of firing a 52-caliber round with a standard range of 42 kilometers, and up to 55 kilometers when using rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP). It can be airlifted by C-130 or A400M transport aircraft, providing excellent mobility and deployment flexibility. In addition to France and Indonesia, it is also utilized by Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the Czech Republic, and Ukraine.