Norway seeks to procure new K9 turret simulators to optimise training. (Norwegian MoD)
The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) issued a request for information (RFI) on 3 July for K9 self-propelled howitzer (SPH) turret simulators.
The RFI, announced on the European Union's (EU's) tendering website, aims to identify companies that are building or have already built a turret simulator based on the K9 that can fulfil the army's requirements for a realistic training system.
Managed by the Land Systems Division, the procurement aims to enhance the operational effectiveness of the army's artillery systems, by raising the level of competence, while reducing ammunition consumption and wear and tear on K9 equipment.
One or two simulators will be procured, with deliveries beginning no later than 2027.
In 2017 Norway signed a KRW245.2 billion (USD176.5 million) contract with Hanwha Defense for 24 K9s in the A1 configuration and six K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. Known as VIDAR (Versatile Indirect Artillery) in Norway, the K9 delivered features a 155 mm/52 calibre artillery gun. In November 2022 Norway ordered four more K9s and eight K10s.
NDMA is striving for a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solution with minimal development required.
For more information on the K9 and Norway's procurement, please seeK9 155 mm/52 calibre tracked SPH and Norway orders more K9 SPHs and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles .
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