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Poland Receives New Batch of K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers from South Korea.
On November 13, 2024, photos shared by the official X account @SztabGenWP revealed the arrival in Poland of an additional batch of K9A1 self-propelled howitzers from South Korea. This delivery marks a new milestone in Poland’s ambitious modernization program for its armed forces, aimed at strengthening its defense capabilities in response to growing threats.
Hanwha Defense K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers (Picture source: X account @SztabGenWP)
With this latest delivery, an as-yet-undetermined number of K9A1 howitzers join the ranks of the Polish Armed Forces, bringing the total number of these artillery pieces in service to over 108. This shipment is part of a $2.5 billion contract signed in August 2022 between Poland's Ministry of Defense and Hanwha Aerospace, providing for the acquisition of 212 K9 systems by 2026, including ammunition, spare parts, training, and logistical support. To further enhance its artillery power, Poland signed a second contract in 2023, valued at $2.6 billion, for 152 additional units, including 146 K9PL howitzers specifically adapted to meet Polish requirements.
The K9PL version, designed to meet Poland’s specific needs, is equipped with Polish-made systems, such as the FONET communication system and the TOPAZ fire control system developed by the WB Group, allowing optimal integration with other national forces. These local adaptations also include reinforced armor for enhanced protection against ballistic threats and shrapnel, as well as components manufactured domestically to support Poland’s technological sovereignty. Additionally, the K9PL incorporates an active defense system to counter anti-tank missiles. It also benefits from an upgraded inertial navigation and fire control system for improved targeting accuracy and a semi-automatic loading system, which enhances firing rates during high-tempo operations.
Poland's acquisition of K9 self-propelled howitzers aligns with a broader defense strategy to address regional tensions and rising security risks, particularly from Russia. As a NATO member with an extensive eastern border, Poland views this mobile artillery capability as essential for deterring threats and responding swiftly in case of conflict. Self-propelled artillery like the K9 offers flexible, mobile firepower, enabling rapid deployments in the field—a critical asset in modern warfare, where mobility and rapid response can significantly impact operational outcomes.
Compared to other nations’ armored forces, Poland’s investment in self-propelled artillery stands out as a central component of its modernization effort, alongside substantial investments in aviation and air defense systems. While Poland enhances its aerial capabilities and mechanized infantry, it focuses on autonomous artillery systems like the K9 howitzers to support intensive ground operations and effectively defend its territory. This equipment strategy enables Poland to maintain flexible and mobile forces, complementing its air assets and offering rapid response capabilities across large areas. In bolstering its artillery, Poland adopts a similar approach to countries like South Korea, which invest in strong ground-based artillery to safeguard against regional threats.
On a European scale, Poland is emerging as a leading force, committed to building one of the continent’s largest and most modern artillery forces. By acquiring the K9 self-propelled howitzers, it already surpasses the artillery capacities of several comparable European nations. For example, France operates around 77 CAESAR self-propelled guns, while Germany has approximately 100 Panzerhaubitze 2000s. Both countries are also investing in modernization projects, but Poland, by integrating national subsystems like FONET and TOPAZ, strengthens its technological autonomy and interoperability, whereas many other European countries rely on imported subsystems, especially for command and communication.
In comparison, Poland focuses on systems with extended firing ranges and rapid response capabilities, features highly valued by Eastern European nations due to their proximity to geopolitically unstable regions. With ongoing contracts for the acquisition of over 360 K9 systems by 2027, Poland is set to become one of the largest self-propelled artillery forces in Europe, alongside military powers such as Russia and Turkey. This positioning makes Poland a key player in ground defense within NATO and the European Union.