The Korean company Hanwha Defense Co. has demonstrated the versatility of its K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer [SPH] in recent tests conducted at the US military facility Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.
In just 16 seconds, the K9A1 was able to fire three 155mm M795 projectiles, showcasing its rapid fire capabilities. The howitzer also demonstrated its ability to quickly change the firing position, taking just 45 seconds to redeploy, known as “shoot-and-scoot.” This capability was achieved using 155mm M795 projectiles.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that the K9A1 achieved a firing range of 50 km using the XM1113 Rocket Assisted Projectile (RAP), a historic first for the US Army, as it was the first time a self-propelled howitzer had fired this type of ammunition. During the tests in Arizona, the K9A1 showed another remarkable feature – “Shoot-and-Scout.” In essence, the howitzer quickly changed its position to escape potential enemy fire before they could respond. Before that, however, it accurately delivered a fusillade of M795 ammunition.
The successful tests took place as part of the Association of the United States Army’s Annual Meeting and Exposition in 2022, where Hanwha Defense USA, the American subsidiary of the Korean company, received accolades for its demonstrations. According to reports, following these tests, the K9A1 received approval for an extended range of ammunition.
The K9A1 proved its high rate of fire, earning praises from John Kelley, the President and CEO of the American company. The K9A1 howitzer was also commended as one of the best self-propelled artillery pieces globally for its caliber of 155/52mm. It was developed during the late 90s, but the most significant upgrade, the K9A1, happened in 2018.
About K9 Thunder / K9A1:
This howitzer is characterized by its long-range and the ability to carry out intense fire within 60 seconds. The K9A1 features armor that can protect both the crew and the onboard equipment from 155mm projectiles, 14.5mm armor-piercing cartridges/projectiles, and anti-personnel mines. The armor is made from MIL-12560H armor steel.
The K9 Thunder has an automatic fire control system that operates under a text-based DOS system and graphical Windows. Additionally, there are integrated digital maps and a guide. This system is designed to interact with the electronic projectile loading system. The K9 Thunder is also equipped with an inertial navigation system (INS) and GPS, a periscope designed for night vision, as well as sensors and displays for reverse movement.
K9A1 is currently engaging international markets, especially in Europe. Countries like South Korea, Estonia, Finland, Norway, and Turkey are keen operators of the system. Poland is a future operator of the K9A1, aiming to acquire a significant number of these self-propelled howitzers. India is the other Asian country operating the K9A1, while Egypt is the first African country to place a substantial order for the system, amounting to 200 units.
