Second deal follows 2017’s initial 96-unit contract
South Korean defense firms’ strengths, including superior performance, gain recognition
South Korean defense firms’ strengths, including superior performance, gain recognition
Finland has operated K9 howitzers since the 2017 initial purchase of 96 units. This follow-on contract reflects Finland’s multi-year, in-service experience with the platform.
DAPA called the deal “the result of close consultations between the two governments to strengthen defense cooperation,” saying it demonstrates the K9’s mobility and firepower even in harsh Nordic conditions marked by extreme cold and heavy snow.
As with the 2017 contract, this second K9 export agreement is a government-to-government deal between Finland’s Ministry of Defence and KOTRA, South Korea’s export agency.
To meet Finland’s request for rapid delivery, DAPA coordinated closely with the Ministry of National Defense, KOTRA, Hanwha Aerospace and other relevant agencies.
Lee Yong-chul, DAPA commissioner, said, “This second export contract with Finland shows that our defense industry’s strengths — including strong performance and competitive pricing — continue to be recognized in the European market. We will actively support our companies’ entry into overseas defense markets as we work to join the ranks of the world’s top four defense producers.”
Nicknamed the “king of the battlefield,” the K9 was developed domestically by Hanwha Aerospace under the direction of the Agency for Defense Development in 1998. It has been the Republic of Korea Army’s primary artillery system for the past two decades.
The K9 is a flagship of South Korea’s defense exports, accounting for more than half of the global market in its class.
It has a cruising range of 360 km, a top speed of 67 km/h, carries 48 rounds and has a maximum firing range of 40 km. With up to 1,000 horsepower, the 47-ton vehicle can be brought to a halt or put into motion quickly.
