Hanwha Aerospace strengthened its position in the European defense market after securing an additional export contract for its K9 self-propelled howitzer to Finland.
On April 9 (local time), Hanwha Aerospace signed a contract with Finland’s Ministry of Defense to supply K9 howitzers worth about €546 million (approximately $584,220,000), roughly 940 billion KRW (approximately $705,000,000).
KOTRA managed the government-to-government arrangement, while Hanwha Aerospace will be responsible for fulfilling the export deliveries.
Under the agreement, Finland will operate more than 200 K9 howitzers in total, including previously acquired systems, making it the third major NATO operator of the platform after Türkiye and Poland.
Finland first purchased 48 K9s in 2017 and, based on the system’s operational performance and reliability, pursued continued acquisitions. The 112 howitzers and associated spare parts covered by this contract are scheduled for phased delivery beginning in 2028.
Because the Finnish Defense Forces already employ the K9 as a primary artillery system, the new units can be fielded immediately with no transition period. Existing maintenance facilities and training pipelines can be reused, maximizing operational efficiency—a key factor behind the follow-on purchase.
Defense analysts say the deal underscores the K9’s strong repeat-sales record. Its performance in harsh Nordic conditions helped build confidence in the system, and Finland’s NATO accession combined with a national push to strengthen artillery capabilities has deepened the strategic partnership.
Hanwha Aerospace said it will use the contract to accelerate its push into the Nordic market, targeting neighboring countries such as Sweden and Denmark for future sales.
Son Jae-il, CEO of Hanwha Aerospace, said the deal “confirms our status as a trusted partner in the European defense market,” and pledged to “continue expanding security cooperation with NATO allies.”
