Denmark donate its all artillery systems to Ukraine
In a significant move demonstrating support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict, Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, announced that the country will donate its entire artillery inventory to the Ukrainian military. This announcement was made during a security conference in Munich, where Frederiksen also called on the international community to amplify its support for Ukraine.
The Danish Prime Minister expressed concern over the frequent discussions among European leaders regarding production issues related to weapon deliveries to Kyiv. She emphasized that Europe possesses the necessary weapons; it is just a matter of providing them to Ukraine. "Denmark has decided to donate our entire artillery to Ukraine. And I am sorry, friends, that there is still ammunition in stock in Europe. This is not a question of production. We have the weapons and the ammunition. We also have air defense systems that we do not need at the moment," Frederiksen stated, according to the Ukrainian newspaper European Pravda.
In an effort to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities further, Denmark is encouraging its allies to provide "everything necessary" to Ukraine. Frederiksen hinted at the upcoming transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, which are being phased out from Danish service in favor of the more modern American F-35 jets. This move signifies Denmark's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense and showcases the broader effort to replace older equipment with more advanced technology.
Frederiksen also urged European nations not to wait for the United States to resolve internal disputes regarding funding for military supplies to Ukraine. She highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, "Regardless of what happens in the United States, we Europeans must defend ourselves and must also defend Ukraine. There is no time for grand speeches. There is a war on the European continent."
Echoing Frederiksen's sentiment, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba addressed Western countries at the Munich conference, attributing the alleged lack of funds for weapons to a misperception of Russian aggression by some leaders. Kuleba implored attendees to consider the broader implications of Ukrainian forces having to retreat from cities due to a lack of resources, emphasizing the direct threat posed by advancing Russian soldiers to European homes and families.
Denmark's pledge to donate its artillery to Ukraine marks a significant contribution to the Ukrainian military's capabilities and underscores the growing concern among European nations regarding the ongoing conflict. Frederiksen's call to action serves as a reminder of the urgent need for increased support and solidarity with Ukraine as it continues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Facts about Danish Artillery
The Nexter CAESAR (Camion Équipé d'un Système d'Artillerie, or Truck Equipped with an Artillery System) is a highly mobile artillery system developed by the French company Nexter. It combines the firepower of traditional artillery with exceptional mobility and speed, making it one of the most advanced artillery systems in the world. Here are some key facts about the Nexter CAESAR:
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Configuration and Mobility: The CAESAR platform typically mounts a 155mm/52-calibre gun on a 6x6 or 8x8 truck chassis, depending on the version. This configuration provides strategic and tactical mobility, allowing for rapid deployment and redeployment on the battlefield.
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Firepower: The CAESAR can fire all standard NATO 155mm ammunition, including High Explosive (HE), Illuminating, Smoke, and Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) shells. It has a firing range of up to 42 kilometers using ERFB VLAP (Very Long-Range Artillery Projectile) rounds.
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Rate of Fire: The system boasts a high rate of fire, capable of shooting six rounds per minute in burst mode, and it can execute the "shoot and scoot" tactic effectively—firing and then quickly moving to another location to avoid counter-battery fire.
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Automated Systems: The CAESAR features an automated laying and loading system, which enhances its operational efficiency and reduces the crew's workload. The system can be operated by a crew of as few as three to five personnel, depending on the configuration and the level of automation.
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Deployment: Since its introduction, the CAESAR has been deployed by several countries worldwide, including France, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Denmark. Its operational effectiveness in various environments demonstrates its adaptability to different terrains and climates.
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Modern Upgrades: Nexter Systems continues to upgrade the CAESAR platform, incorporating advanced technologies such as improved ballistic computers, navigation systems, and communication equipment to enhance its operational capabilities and integration with other military assets.
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Operational Experience: The CAESAR has been used in various operational theaters, including the Middle East and Africa, where it has been noted for its precision, reliability, and strategic mobility. Its performance in real-world conflicts has solidified its reputation as a versatile and effective artillery system.
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Variants: There are several variants of the CAESAR system, tailored to meet the specific requirements of different customers. These variants differ in chassis type, armor protection, cab configuration, and additional equipment.
The CAESAR artillery system exemplifies modern artillery's shift towards greater mobility, rapid deployment, and precision, aligning with contemporary military doctrines that prioritize flexibility and quick response times on the battlefield.
