Hanwha Aerospace has completed the acceptance tests for a domestically-built 1,000-horsepower diesel engine to be equipped with the K9 self-propelled howitzer (SPH). This is a key milestone for further expanding K9’s presence in the international SPH market.
The year-long testing program, which took place in South Korea, Egypt and other nations, included extensive field trials covering over 10,000 kilometers of driving tests in different environments and road conditions, including desert areas.
“With the successful completion of the homegrown engine test, we can offer specialized engine to any potential K9 customers, which is expected to expand K9’s global presence.
This is part of our efforts to diversify our portfolio meeting the evolving needs of global customers.”
Kim Dong-hyun, Head of the Land Systems Business Group at Hanwha Aerospace
Hanwha Aerospace signed a $1.7 billion contract with Egypt in 2022 to supply hundreds of the K9 SPHs, K10 ammunition resupply vehicles, and K11 fire control vehicles. The first batch of K9A1EGYs equipped with the indigenous engine to Egypt is expected to be delivered no later than the first quarter of 2026.
The K9 is the world’s most popular artillery system adopted by 10 countries, including six NATO members. The K9 can deliver consistent, accurate, rapid effects at ranges of over 40km with high rates and volumes of fire. The K9 is optimized for ‘Shoot and Scoot’ tactics, where multiple rounds are fired before the tracked vehicle moves to a different location to avoid counter-battery fire.
Source: Hanwha Defense news release
