Vietnamese army interested in South Korean-made Hanwha K9A1 Self-propelled Howitzer.

Vietnam has shown a high interest in defense industry cooperation with Hanwha as it promotes military modernization, Defense Studies reports. During his visit to Korea, Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang had a surprise meeting with Hanwha Aerospace executives and inspected the K9A1 self-propelled howitzers deployed in the South Korean Army.
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A Vietnamese delegation inspected the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer of the South Korean 7th Artillery Brigade operating under the 7th Mobile Corps (Picture source: QDND)

According to the industry on March 30, Minister Jang secretly visited the Hanwha Aerospace site during his visit to Korea on the 27th and 29th. He is believed to have discussed arms export contracts and technology transfers. Indeed, Vietnam is seeking to modernize its army and is considering the introduction of new weapons.

In a meeting with South Korean Prime Minister Han Deok-soo on March 28, Vietnamese Defense Minister Jang showed great interest in the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer. On the same day, they visited the 7th Artillery Brigade under the 7th Mobile Corps (hereafter referred to as the 7th Corps) stationed near Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do, which operates the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer.

A Vietnamese delegation inspected the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer of the South Korean 7th Artillery Brigade operating under the 7th Mobile Corps (Picture source: QDND)

At the core of the K9A1 is its main armament, a 155mm/52-caliber gun that is capable of firing a wide range of ammunition, including standard NATO rounds, Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) projectiles, and rocket-assisted projectiles. With a maximum firing range of 40 km with standard ammunition and 50 km with ERFB projectiles, the K9A1 can engage targets at long distances with high precision.

In terms of the rate of fire, the K9A1 can fire up to 6 rounds per minute, with a sustained rate of fire of 3 rounds per minute. The howitzer can carry up to 48 rounds of ammunition, with an additional 14 rounds carried in the ammunition resupply vehicle, giving it ample firepower for extended engagements.

The K9A1 is based on a tracked chassis that enables it to travel at a maximum speed of 67 km/h on roads and 30 km/h off-road, making it highly mobile and capable of keeping up with armored formations. It has a maximum range of 480 km, allowing it to operate deep behind enemy lines if necessary.

The K9A1's crew of five is comprised of a driver, gunner, loader, commander, and communications specialist. The howitzer is equipped with advanced armor protection, including a ballistic shield that covers the front of the turret, and a mine blast-resistant hull, ensuring the safety of its crew in combat situations.

The K9A1 is equipped with an advanced fire control system, which includes a gunner's primary sight, a commander's panoramic sight, and an automatic fire control system. The howitzer is also equipped with advanced communications systems, including a digital radio system and a battlefield management system, enabling it to operate effectively as part of a larger military force.

Defense News April 2023