France accelerates military aid to Ukraine with weapons and shells

France is gearing up to send new aid packages to Ukraine, encompassing weapons and ammunition that have been keenly sought by Kyiv. The aid will consist of 155mm caliber shells and the esteemed CAESAR howitzers, both of which are pivotal for the Ukrainian front.

French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu has verified the dispatch of additional support to Ukraine. According to him, this substantial assistance will comprise 78 CAESAR howitzers and 80,000 155mm caliber shells. Lecornu also highlighted France's efforts to procure further ammunition for Ukraine from non-European Union countries. These efforts are part of a Czech-led initiative which has garnered significant attention across nearly all of Europe.

It's worth noting that Czech authorities have managed to secure an ammunition supplier for Ukraine, albeit under the condition of anonymity. This will ensure the delivery of at least 500,000 artillery shells of 155mm caliber and an additional 300,000 of 122mm caliber to the Ukrainian forces.

The 155mm caliber shells are particularly crucial for Ukraine, being commonly used in the artillery systems of NATO countries. This includes the systems previously supplied to Ukraine, such as the Polish Krab howitzers, German PzH 2000s, and the French CAESARs now under discussion.

### The Impact of CAESAR Howitzers in Ukraine

The CAESAR (CAmion Equipe d'un Système d'ARtillerie) howitzer stands out for its rapid-fire capability of up to 6 rounds per minute and the ability to operate in MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact) mode. It features a 52-caliber long gun, with an engagement range varying from 18.6 to 24.8 miles depending on the projectile used. For special ammunition like rocket-assisted or Vulcano projectiles, the range can extend up to 49.7 miles.

What sets the French CAESAR apart is its mobility, enabled by its wheeled (6×6 or 8×8) design and a 322 HP engine, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 62 mph on roads.

The CAESAR howitzers, already in use by the Ukrainian army, have proven their worth on the battlefield. The heavier 8x8 variants are particularly valued for their armored cabins and automatic loading systems, enhancing their operational efficiency and safety.