Hanwha Aerospace delivered four K9 self-propelled howitzers and eight ammunition supply vehicles to Norway, extending its defense partnership in Northern Europe. The latest shipment follows a 2022 agreement that built on an initial 2017 deal for 24 howitzers and six support vehicles.
The South Korean defense contractor’s K9 system, which has been exported to nine countries since 2001, can fire multiple rounds at targets more than 40 kilometers away before quickly repositioning to avoid counter-strikes. The 47-ton vehicle comes paired with the K10 ammunition resupply vehicle, which carries over 100 artillery shells.
Land Systems Business Group chief Kim Dong-hyun said the company remains focused on meeting Norwegian military requirements. The equipment is expected to reach Norway within two months for military inspection.
The deal strengthens Norway’s position in the K9 User Club, where operators share operational expertise. Hanwha has sold about 1,800 K9 units globally, with customers including Turkey, India, Poland, Finland, Estonia, Australia, Egypt and Romania.
While Hanwha positions the K9 as a leading artillery platform, the company faces growing competition in the European defense market as countries boost military spending following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
