Egypt first country in Middle East to use K9 Thunder Self-Propelled Howitzer.

For the first time, the Egyptian Army displayed the K9 Thunder 155 mm self-propelled howitzer during a military parade. Alongside the K9 Thunder, the parade also featured the K10 ammunition resupply vehicle. This South Korean-made artillery system has been designated as K9A1EGY for use by the Egyptian forces. This marks the first time that the South Korean K9 155mm howitzer entered into service with a country in the Middle East. 
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Egyptian 155 mm K9 Thunder Self-Propelled Howitzer (Picture source: CBC Egypt )

Currently, the self-propelled artillery units of Egypt's 4th Armored Division are transitioning from the M109 howitzers to the newer K9 systems. The division is also equipped with M1A1 tanks and M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, making it one of the most formidable units in the Egyptian military.

In February 2022, a contract worth $1.7 billion was signed in Cairo for the supply of the K9A1 EGY howitzers, developed by South Korean company Hanwha Defense. The agreement also includes the delivery of K10 ammunition resupply vehicles and K11 fire control vehicles.

According to the terms of the contract, Hanwha Defense is expected to deliver the first batch of K9A1 EGY systems, manufactured in South Korea, in 2024. Some of the artillery systems will be produced locally in Egypt following the transfer of technology to a state-owned military factory and the Abu Zaabal Company. Additionally, Hanwha Defense has committed to providing various support programs, including personnel training and technical maintenance.

The K9 Thunder is a self-propelled howitzer that has garnered international attention for its advanced capabilities and features. Designed in South Korea, this artillery system is currently in use by several countries. It is equipped with a 155 mm gun and a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, providing significant firepower in both artillery and anti-infantry roles. The howitzer also focuses on crew protection, with armor designed to withstand 14.5 mm caliber armor-piercing shells and 152 mm artillery shell fragments.

Speed and mobility are also key attributes of the K9 Thunder. With a top speed of 67 km/h, it can quickly reposition itself, which is crucial for both offensive and defensive operations. Its operational range is an impressive 360 km, allowing for extended missions.

The K9 Thunder comes with a host of accessories that enhance its operational effectiveness. These include a CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) protection system, a heater for cold environments, and both internal and external communications systems. Additionally, it features a manual fire suppression system and an automatic fire control system, which streamline the targeting and firing processes.

The howitzer is designed to be operated by a crew of five and has dimensions that contribute to its overall effectiveness and deployability. With a length of 7.44 meters, a width of 3.4 meters, and a height of 2.73 meters to the roof of the turret, the K9 Thunder is compact enough for rapid deployment.

Egypt's State Minister of Military Production, Mohamed Ahmed Morsi, announced in June 2022 that production of the K9 systems is set to begin in 2023, with eventually 67% of the components being manufactured within Egypt. The K9 is gradually becoming one of the most widely used 155 mm self-propelled howitzers globally. Besides the Republic of Korea, the system has been purchased by the armed forces of Australia, Estonia, Finland, India, Norway, Poland, and Turkey.