Hanwha Land System showcases K9 self-propelled howitzer at WDS 2024.

At the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024, the self-propelled artillery system K9 Thunder is displayed as a significant milestone for the South Korean defense industry particularly in the field of self-propelled artillery.
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The self-propelled artillery system K9 Thunder produced by Hanwha Land Systems at WDS 2024 (Picture source: Army recognition)

Development of this 155mm/52 caliber howitzer began in 1989, with initial prototypes tested in 1996. The contract for the new K9 artillery system was awarded to Samsung Aerospace Industries (SSA) by the South Korean government on December 22, 1998, and the Republic of Korea Army received the first production batch in 1999.

The K9 Thunder quickly became a central element of modern artillery, thanks to its high mobility, precision, and durability. It has been adopted and adapted by several countries. Turkey licensed the design of the K9 to develop its own self-propelled howitzer, the T-155 Firtina. Finland, Norway, Estonia, India, and Poland have also acquired the system, demonstrating its versatility and performance. In 2020, Australia announced the purchase of 30 units of the K9 Thunder, while in 2022, Egypt signed a contract for the delivery of these howitzers. The most significant contract was signed with Poland in August 2022, valued at $2.4 billion.

Nicknamed "Thunder," the K9 Thunder is the world's most popular self-propelled howitzer, accounting for over 50% of the global market share of artillery SPH platforms, with approximately 1,800 units in service. Equipped with a 155mm/52 caliber gun, it can deliver accurate and rapid fire at ranges of over 40 kilometers, thanks to its ability to "shoot and scoot," firing multiple rounds and immediately moving to avoid counter-battery fire.

The main armament of the K9 Thunder consists of a 155mm/52 caliber gun, capable of firing six rounds per minute. It carries 48 projectiles and their associated charges for immediate use. An internal automatic loading system places the projectiles on the ammunition tray ready for ramming. When on the move, the gun is secured by a travel lock, controlled remotely by the driver. The K9 is compatible with NATO standard 155mm ammunition and offers protection against small arms fire and artillery shell fragments with its welded steel armor.

The K9 is powered by a 1,000 horsepower MTU MT 881 Ka-500 diesel engine, coupled with an Allison automatic transmission. It can achieve a maximum speed of 67 km/h with a range of 360 km. The K9 is equipped with NBC protection systems, heating, internal and external communication systems, and a manual fire suppression system. It also features a Honeywell azimuth positioning system, automatic fire control system, and powered gun elevation/depression and turret traverse systems. Measuring 7.44 meters long, 3.4 meters wide, and 2.73 meters high at the turret roof, with a weight of 46,300 kg, the K9 Thunder is a formidable addition to any military arsenal.