As reported on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, by the South Korean internet portal Biz.HanKoo, Hanwha is working on a wheeled version of the 155-mm K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer. The new weapon project was unveiled in the second half of July 2024 when a model of the new artillery system was publicly presented. However, as Hanwha representatives informed MILMAG editors, the project is at a very early stage of development, and the potential development of the howitzer in this configuration will correspond with the requirements of future potential customers.
One of the first visualizations of the self-propelled howitzer on a wheeled chassis / Graphic: Hanwha Aerospace
Based on reports appearing on the Korean internet, it can be speculated that the wheeled version of the K9 will use a turret derived from the K9A2 modernization project, with an increased level of automation, allowing for a reduction of the crew to 3 soldiers (driver, commander, and gunner).
Moreover, according to the Biz.HanKook portal, the Korean howitzer may be equipped with a 155-mm gun with a length of 58 calibers to increase the effective firing range. According to the presented visualization, the turret is to be integrated with the Korean 8×8 wheeled platform, but Hanwha does not rule out using other truck chassis if required by potential customers.
The manufacturer itself is very restrained in providing information. However, in response to a question from the MILMAG portal, it emphasized that the concept of building the new wheeled K9 self-propelled howitzer is not related to the British Mobile Fires Platform (MFP) program, in which the Koreans participated.
The question remains unanswered whether the project also covers the modernization of the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicles and their adaptation to wheeled platforms, so they can accompany the modified self-propelled howitzers.
The K9 Thunder is a South Korean self-propelled howitzer on a tracked chassis. Its main armament is a 155 mm gun with a length of 52 calibers, which, depending on the type of ammunition, provides precise fire at distances over 40 km. The K9’s armor provides protection against small arms and artillery fragments. It is powered by a 1000 HP diesel engine with an automatic transmission, ensuring high speed and mobility in all terrains. The howitzer weighs 47 tons. The K9A1 self-propelled howitzers have been adopted by the Polish Armed Forces, where they are equipped with the FONET digital intercom and the TOPAZ national artillery system produced by WB Group (Poland with the TOPAZ system accepted into ASCA).