US Army selects South Korean K9 howitzer for mobile artillery program

Wednesday 19 August 2026 - 11:30

By: Azzat Manal

US Army selects South Korean K9 howitzer for mobile artillery program

The United States Army has selected South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace to supply prototype self-propelled K9 howitzers as part of a new effort to develop a highly mobile 155mm artillery system.

Under the agreement, Hanwha Defense USA, the company's American subsidiary, will provide six prototype platforms based on the K9 system. The contract also includes an option for an additional 12 prototypes, bringing the potential value of the deal to approximately $233 million.

The prototypes will be developed for the Army's Mobile Tactical Cannon program, which is designed to provide forces with a modern artillery platform capable of moving rapidly while delivering long-range fire support.

Once delivered, the systems are expected to undergo soldier-led operational testing. The trials will assess the vehicles' performance, reliability, maintainability and ability to operate under simulated combat conditions.

The decision represents another step in Hanwha Aerospace's efforts to expand the international presence of the K9 platform. The self-propelled howitzer has already been selected or contracted by several countries, including NATO members such as Poland, Norway, Finland and Romania.

The K9 is designed around a tracked platform that combines mobility with a 155mm artillery capability. Its adoption by several armed forces has made it one of South Korea's most prominent defense exports.

Hanwha is also considering manufacturing the American prototypes at a facility in Alabama. Local production could strengthen the company's position in the US defense market while supporting Washington's broader efforts to expand domestic defense manufacturing and supply-chain resilience.

For the US Army, the program comes as military planners place greater emphasis on mobile artillery systems capable of operating in contested environments. Modern battlefield conditions have increased the importance of mobility, rapid deployment and the ability to relocate artillery units after firing.

The prototype phase will therefore be important in determining whether the K9-based design can meet the Army's operational requirements. Soldier feedback and testing results will help determine the system's suitability for potential future procurement.

The agreement also highlights the growing defense-industrial relationship between the United States and South Korea. Cooperation between the two countries has expanded beyond traditional security partnerships into areas including advanced weapons production, technology and military equipment.