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