Nexter Systems: Military Aid to Ukraine by France — An Elaborate Discussion

 Nexter Systems: Military Aid to Ukraine by France — An Elaborate Discussion




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1. Introduction to Nexter Systems


Nexter Systems, formerly known as GIAT Industries, is a major French defense contractor and part of the KNDS Group, which was created through the merger of France's Nexter and Germany's Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). It specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of land-based defense systems, including:


Artillery systems


Armored vehicles


Ammunition


Weapon stations


Fire control systems



Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, France has emerged as a key military supporter of Ukraine, with Nexter Systems playing a pivotal role in supplying crucial defense equipment.



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2. Overview of France's Military Support to Ukraine


France has provided Ukraine with a wide array of military assistance, including:


Artillery systems (e.g., CAESAR howitzers)


Armored vehicles (e.g., AMX-10 RC)


Air defense equipment


Ammunition and spare parts


Training and logistical support



Much of this military hardware and expertise originates from Nexter Systems or involves equipment developed and maintained by the company.



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3. Key Military Equipment Supplied by Nexter Systems to Ukraine


A. CAESAR Self-Propelled Howitzers


System Overview: CAESAR (CAmion Équipé d’un Système d’ARtillerie) is Nexter’s most prominent artillery product.


Deliveries: France has delivered more than 30 CAESAR units to Ukraine.


Specifications:


155mm/52-caliber cannon


Range: Up to 42 km with standard shells, 55 km with rocket-assisted


Rapid mobility and “shoot-and-scoot” capability



Tactical Impact in Ukraine:


Used extensively in counter-battery operations


Highly effective in targeting Russian artillery positions


Notable for precision, long range, and high survivability




B. 105 LG1 Light Towed Howitzers


System Overview: The 105 LG1 is a lightweight 105mm howitzer designed for rapid deployment.


Use in Ukraine:


Delivered to Ukraine as portable artillery support


Suitable for mountainous and forested terrains or for airmobile units



Specifications:


Range: Up to 17 km


Weight: Only ~1,650 kg


Can be towed by light vehicles or airlifted by helicopters




C. Artillery Ammunition and Smart Munitions


Nexter has also been a key supplier of ammunition to Ukraine:


155mm high-explosive shells


BONUS (BOfors NUtating Shell) sensor-fused munitions, co-developed with BAE Systems:


Designed for precision targeting of armored vehicles


Deployed from CAESAR systems


Capable of detecting and striking tanks autonomously



Firing Packages: France provides complete artillery packages, including shells, charges, fuzes, and propellants.



D. AMX-10 RC Armored Fighting Vehicles (Not a Nexter product, but supported in logistics)


Although manufactured by GIAT Industries (now part of Nexter), these vehicles were provided by France to Ukraine.


A hybrid between a tank and a reconnaissance vehicle


Equipped with a 105mm cannon and suitable for hit-and-run attacks


Ukraine has used them in fast-assault missions in the Donbas region




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4. Logistical and Maintenance Support from Nexter


Nexter has not only supplied equipment but also:


Established training programs for Ukrainian artillerymen and technicians


Provided technical support and maintenance instructions for CAESAR and other artillery systems


Helped to set up mobile workshops for field repairs and diagnostics



In 2024, France announced the creation of a local repair hub in Ukraine or nearby countries like Poland or Romania. This ensures that equipment like CAESARs and LG1s can be quickly restored to operational status.



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5. Future Deliveries and Expansion


French Pledge for Additional CAESAR Units


In May 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the delivery of 78 more CAESAR howitzers to Ukraine.


Some of these are expected to be newly manufactured by Nexter; others may be drawn from French Army stocks.



Production Scaling by Nexter


Nexter has expanded its production line for CAESARs and artillery ammunition to meet Ukrainian and export demands.


The goal is to deliver 12+ systems per month, significantly increasing Ukraine’s artillery capability.




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6. Operational Successes on the Battlefield


Ukraine has effectively deployed Nexter’s systems in:


Bakhmut, Kherson, and Donetsk fronts – for precise long-range bombardment


Destruction of Russian supply convoys and HQs


Interdiction of artillery systems using counter-battery radar and precision strikes



The mobility and range of CAESAR have saved Ukrainian crews from heavy losses by avoiding enemy retaliatory fire.



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7. Strategic Importance


Nexter Systems’ weapons in Ukraine serve multiple strategic purposes:


Demonstrates France’s commitment to NATO and European security


Strengthens Ukraine's interoperability with NATO forces through standardized artillery systems


Tests French systems in real combat, giving Nexter valuable operational feedback




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8. Nexter's Role in the Western Military-Industrial Complex


Nexter is now one of Europe's leading arms producers and has gained prominence through:


Increased orders from NATO countries


Participation in joint European defense projects


Positioning France as a reliable supplier of advanced artillery and armored platforms




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9. Criticism and Challenges


Despite the praise, there have been challenges and criticisms:


Delivery Delays: Some shipments took months due to manufacturing constraints.


Ammunition Supply: Ukraine requires massive quantities of shells; keeping up with this demand has been difficult.


Russian Targeting: Russia has reportedly tried to track and target CAESAR batteries, prompting further security enhancements.




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10. Conclusion


Nexter Systems has emerged as a cornerstone of France’s military aid to Ukraine, delivering highly effective and battle-tested weapons like the CAESAR howitzer and 105 LG1. These systems have significantly boosted Ukraine’s artillery firepower, especially in precision targeting and long-range engagements. As the war continues, France and Nexter are expected to deepen their role by supplying more advanced systems, training Ukrainian forces, and establishing local production and maintenance hubs.


Nexter’s contributions represent not just military support, but a symbol of European solidarity with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.


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