Development of Hanwha Aerospace's K9A2 SPH is scheduled to be completed by 2027. (Hanwha Aerospace)
South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace is field testing a prototype of the K9A2 155 mm/52 calibre self-propelled howitzer (SPH) as part of the platform's continuing development and ahead of its expected deployment with the Republic of Korea (RoK) Army in the next few years.
A Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson told Janes that the K9A2 trials follow a contract awarded to the company by South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) in late 2023 under which it is developing the SPH, which features a fully automated ammunition handling system.
The Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson did not elaborate on the trials but said, “The K9A2 is currently undergoing field tests ahead of its planned deployment in South Korea in 2027.”
The spokesperson added that details related to K9A2 production were not yet finalised. “While it is difficult to disclose the exact production quantities and delivery schedules at this time, Hanwha Aerospace plans to proceed with production and delivery according to customer requirement,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added that contracts to initiate serial production and deliveries of the K9A2 to the RoK Army will follow the completion of the development programme in 2027.
“The K9 upgrade programme has been progressing since the contract was signed with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration at the end of last year,” the spokesperson said. “Upon completion of the programme in 2027, we anticipate signing contracts and initiating deliveries to the military at an appropriate time.”
Initial development of the K9A2 started in 2018. Janes
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