View source for K9 Thunder

{{Short description|South Korean self-propelled 155 mm howitzer}}
{{Use American English|date=April 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = K9 Thunder
| image              = File:2011.2.17 육군6포병여단 k-9,k-55 자주포사격 (7633864346).jpg
| image_size         = 300px
| caption            = 
| type               = [[Self-propelled howitzer]]
| origin             = South Korea
<!-- Type selection -->
| is_ranged          = yes
| is_bladed          = no
| is_explosive       = no
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = yes
| is_missile         = no
| is_UK              = no
| service            = K9: 1999–present <br />K9A1: 2018–present
| wars               = {{Tree list}}
* [[Korean conflict]]
** [[Bombardment of Yeonpyeong]]
{{Tree list/end}}
| used_by            = See ''[[#Operators|Operators]]''
| designer           = {{plainlist|
*[[Agency for Defense Development]] (main developer)
*Dongmyeong Heavy Industries (turret and suspension)
*[[Hyundai WIA|Kia Heavy Industry]] (main armament)
*[[Poongsan Corporation]] (ammunition)
*[[Samsung Aerospace|Samsung Aerospace Industries]] (structure and production)}}
| design_date        = 1989–1998
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*Samsung Aerospace Industries (1998–2000)
*Samsung Techwin (2000–2015)
*[[Hanwha Techwin]] (2015–2017)
*Hanwha Land Systems (2017–2019)
*Hanwha Defense (2019–2022)
*[[Hanwha Aerospace]] (2022–present)
}}
| unit_cost          = 4 billion KRW <small>(ROK Armed Forces, 2021)</small><ref name="salesperson interview">{{cite AV media |date=2021-07-03 |title=[46회 무삭제 확장판] 세계 자주포 시장을 석권하다, K-9 자주포 ㅣ 뉴스멘터리 전쟁과 사람 / YTN2 |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Nf6vMkAXRI  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/_Nf6vMkAXRI |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=[[YTN]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| production_date    = K9: 1998–2018 <br />K9A1: 2018–present
| number             = 1,800 (2024)
| variants           = See ''[[#Variants and upgrades|variants and upgrades]]''
| mass               = K9 & K9A1: {{convert|47|t|abbr=on|sp=us}}, combat<ref name="Hanwha Defense K9" /> <hr />K9A2: {{convert|48.5|t|abbr=on|sp=us}}, combat, with metal track<ref name="K9A2 UK interview">{{Citation |script-title=ko:자주포 K9, 미국 자주포 사거리 연장 사업까지 가능할까...?!ㅣK-방산 팩트체크 5편 [프파S] | date=8 November 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k39-R5iFzGA |language=en |access-date=2022-12-05}}</ref>
| length             = Overall: {{convert|12|m|ftin|abbr=on|sp=us}} <br />Hull: {{convert|7.44|m|ftin|abbr=on|sp=us}}
| width              = {{convert|3.4|m|ftin|abbr=on|sp=us}}
| height             = {{convert|2.73|m|ftin|abbr=on|sp=us}}
| crew               = K9 & K9A1: 5 (Commander, Driver, Gunner, 2 Loaders) <hr />K9A2: 3 (Commander, Driver, Gunner) 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 18&nbsp;km (M107, HE) <br />30&nbsp;km (M549A1, RAP/HE) <br />36&nbsp;km (K310, BB/DP-ICM) <br />41&nbsp;km (K307, BB/HE) <br />54&nbsp;km (K315, LAP/HE)
| sights             = Panoramic scope (manual mode)<br/>Safran MINEO DFSS (option)
| armour             = [[POSCO]] MIL-12560H armor steel (South Korean produced variants only, after 2022) <hr />Bisalloy armour steel (foreign licensed variants, after 2022)<hr/>Spall liner (option)<br/>[[Plasan]] add-on armor (option)
| primary_armament   = [[Hyundai WIA]] CN98 [[155 mm]] 52 caliber, 48 rounds
| secondary_armament = [[SNT Dynamics]] K6 12.7x99&nbsp;mm NATO HMG
| engine             = STX Engine/[[MTU Friedrichshafen]] MT881Ka-500 [[8-cylinder]] [[water-cooled]] [[diesel engine]] 735 kW (1,000 hp) @ 2,700 rpm<hr />STX Engine SMV1000 8-cylinder water-cooled diesel engine 735 kW (1,000 hp) @ 2,700 rpm (available since 2024)
| pw_ratio           = 21.3&nbsp;hp/t (15.88&nbsp;kW/t)
| transmission       = [[SNT Dynamics]]/[[Allison Transmission]] X1100-5A3 <br />4 forward, 2 reverse
| suspension         = [[Mottrol]]/Horstman [[Hydropneumatic suspension|Hydropneumatic Suspension Unit (HSU)]] <br />Travel distance: ≤ 275&nbsp;mm <br />Dead weight: 40–45&nbsp;kN
| clearance          = {{convert|410|mm|in|abbr=on}}<br />longitudinal slope: 60 %<br />lateral slope: 30 %<br />vertical: 0.75 m<br />trench: 2.8 m<br />fording: 1.5 m
| fuel_capacity      = {{convert|850|liter|USgal|0|abbr=on}}
| vehicle_range      = {{convert|360|km|mi|abbr=on}}
| speed              = {{convert|67|km/h|abbr=on}}
}}

The '''K9 Thunder''' is a South Korean [[155 mm]] [[self-propelled howitzer]] designed and developed by the [[Agency for Defense Development]] and private corporations including Dongmyeong Heavy Industries, [[Hyundai WIA|Kia Heavy Industry]], [[Poongsan Corporation]], and [[Hanwha Techwin|Samsung Aerospace Industries]] for the [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces]], and is now manufactured by [[Hanwha Aerospace]].<ref name="Hanwha Defense K9">{{cite web |url=https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/kor/products/firearms-system-k9.do |title=Hanwha Defense K9 Self-propelled Howitzer |publisher=Hanwha Defense |access-date=29 January 2020 |archive-date=17 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717092526/https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/kor/products/firearms-system-k9.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> K9 howitzers operate in groups with the [[K10 ammunition resupply vehicle]] variant.<ref name="JoongAng K9A2"/><ref name="news2day.co.kr">{{Cite web |script-title=ko:한화그룹, 대우조선해양 인수로 국내 유일 육·해·공 전문 방산기업으로 '우뚝' |url=https://www.news2day.co.kr/article/20220926500126 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=뉴스투데이 |language=ko}}</ref>

The entire K9 fleet operated by the ROK Armed Forces is now undergoing upgrades to '''K9A1''', and a further upgrade variant '''K9A2''' is being tested for production. As of 2022, the K9 series has had a 52% share of the global self-propelled howitzer market, including wheeled vehicles, since the year 2000.<ref name="JoongAng K9A2">{{cite web|url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25053184#home|script-title=ko:8년전 우크라 때리자 꽂혔다...세계최강 K9자주포 진화 이유 [김민석 배틀그라운드]|publisher=[[JoongAng Ilbo]]|date=6 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307121130/https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25053184#home|archive-date=7 March 2022|access-date=7 March 2022|author=Kim Minseok}}</ref><ref name="news2day.co.kr"/>

==Development==
In the 1980s, the ROK Armed Forces came in need of a new artillery system to contest North Korean equipment. The armed forces operated [[M107 self-propelled gun]]s and [[M109 howitzer#K55|K55 self-propelled howitzers]]. However, they had shorter firing ranges compared to [[Koksan (artillery)|M-1978 Koksan]] and were outnumbered by various North Korean artillery. With the success in designing and manufacturing the [[KH178 105 mm towed howitzer|KH178 105 mm]] and [[KH179 155 mm towed howitzer]]s, and experience gained by license producing the K55 (KM109A2), the Ministry of Defense ordered the development of a new system that would have a longer firing range, faster firing rate, and high mobility. The development started in 1989 and was led by the [[Agency for Defense Development]] (ADD) and [[Hanwha Techwin|Samsung Aerospace Industries]] (now Hanwha Defense).<ref name="K9 Developer Interview (1)">{{cite AV media |date=2015-09-16 |script-title=ko:[첨단국가의 초석, 방위산업] 자주포의 새 차원을 열다 – K-9 천둥(1부) |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2tivketAK0  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/F2tivketAK0 |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=국방TV}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

Since 1983, the ADD researchers have been collecting and analyzing data for future artillery. They saw that burst fire and quick relocation would become the dominant factor in artillery battles and built an automatic loading system for testing in 1984. In 1987, the ADD offered an upgrade plan to the existing K55 inspired by the United States' M109 Howitzer Improvement Program (standardized in 1990 as [[M109 howitzer#M109A6 Paladin|M109A6]]), but was rejected by the [[Republic of Korea Army]] in 1988. As a result, and at the beginning of K9 development, the ADD was determined to create a new weapon system and worked on a conceptual model until 1991. Early concepts requested by the military included river crossing capability and the installation of [[M61 Vulcan]] as an anti-air weapon, which were later removed due to being unnecessary for such a long-range weapon.<ref name="K9 Developer Interview (1)" /><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 5회] 세계적 추세 '화포 자동화 방안' 연구 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220223/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404154135/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220223/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 1989, the only design data the researchers could obtain at that time were the provisions of the four-nation ballistic agreements, namely the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy, to secure the homogeneity of the ammunitions—the new 52 caliber gun fires a NATO standard ammunition (L15A1) at a speed of 945 m per second from chamber volume of 3,556&nbsp;cm<sup>3</sup>. The first domestic design was prepared by extending and modifying the 155&nbsp;mm 39 caliber gun used for the KH179.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 9회] 핵심 '무장' 개발 처음부터 난관 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220307/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145553/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220307/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> The first firing test was held in January 1992 but experienced many problems due to design errors.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 10회] 위험 도사린 무장 사격시험 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220307/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=13 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213061917/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220307/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In September 1990, a Korean developer visited the United Kingdom in search of turret design technology which was known to have been developed by British [[Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering|Vickers]] for [[AS-90]]. Vickers refused the technology transfer. Instead, the company offered the AS-90 for sale. The developer also visited [[Marconi Electronic Systems|Marconi]], but the negotiations ended with an unsatisfactory result due to a high requested price. Therefore, developers pursued a domestic electrohydraulic driving system, using the experience in turret design and turret driving devices of the [[K1 88-Tank|K1 MBT]]. The simulator was built in 1991.<ref name="국방일보">{{Cite web  |title=[K9 12회] 회전시키는 포를 1mil 이내로 위치시켜라 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220322/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404152623/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220322/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="K9 Developer Interview (3)"/>

The next year, researchers found that the disproportionate moment of the 52-caliber was twice of the K55. The balancing machine, which increased the capacity of the existing hydraulic balancing machine, did not sufficiently compensate for the imbalance moment value due to the change in the position of the armament. The driving force was very different depending on the driving angle. The same problem appeared in Germany's [[Panzerhaubitze 2000]], which was under development. A joint research team from the ADD and [[Seoul National University of Science and Technology]] calculated an accurate theoretical model, and concluded that adjustment to system configuration was possible without major design changes.<ref name="국방일보"/><ref name="K9 Developer Interview (3)"/>

Meanwhile, loud noise from hydraulic generators, which can cause hearing loss under long exposure, was also a problem. The engineers of the ADD and Dongmyeong Heavy Industries (now Mottrol) found that the noise was due to excessive shaking of hydraulic pressure, thus creating an experimental device using the principle of Helmholtz attenuators used in car mufflers. The noisy equipment became quieter and the hydraulic pulsation was significantly reduced. Overall, the domestic design showed driving precision of less than 1 mil in the standard error range.<ref name="국방일보"/><ref name="K9 Developer Interview (3)">{{cite AV media |date=2015-10-15 |script-title=ko:[첨단국가의 초석, 방위산업] 자주포의 새 차원을 열다 – K-9 천둥(3부) |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXvZZ9eowMs  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/yXvZZ9eowMs |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=국방TV}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

In the winter of 1991, the ADD held talks with engineers from Samsung Aerospace Industries' special research institute. The ADD originally demanded that Samsung be in charge of system assembly only, as the company had no experience in developing its own tracked vehicle design despite having the experience in manufacturing K55 under license. The decision was overturned and the manufacture of the MTR (Mobility Test Rig) was decided upon.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 13회] 신자포 체계개발과 차량개발의 분리 의견 나오자.... |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220418/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145554/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220418/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> Samsung worked with [[KAIST]] on suspension and [[Seoul National University]] & [[Pohang University of Science and Technology]] on mobility systems. The engine was co-developed with American [[AAI Corporation]]. The test of the MTR was finished in November 1992.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 16회] 기동실험차량 제작해 기동설계요소 확보 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145555/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In April 1992, BMY Combat Systems (now BAE Systems Land and Armaments) invited members of the ADD for its first M109A6 Paladin release ceremony and expressed interest in participating in Korea's self-propelled howitzer program by upgrading the K55 to Paladin standard. In May, members of BMY Combat Systems and Taledyne Brown visited the ADD, and suggested co-development of a new howitzer based on the P-52, a 52-caliber Paladin variant. This proposal was rejected by Korean developers. Later, during a Data Exchange Agreement meeting, South Korea and the United States confirmed that the U.S. had no claim to any intellectual property rights of the howitzer, to avoid possible disputes in the future.<ref name="K9 Developer Interview (2)">{{cite AV media |date=2015-10-15 |script-title=ko:[첨단국가의 초석, 방위산업] 자주포의 새 차원을 열다 – K-9 천둥(2부) |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lh_CVAm3XNo  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/Lh_CVAm3XNo |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=국방TV}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 14회] "우리 자주포 우리가 개발한다"며 미측 제안 거부 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220418/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404151106/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220418/2/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

From 1992 to 1993, the developers explored and confirmed the required operational capability, such as the system suitability of major components and the possibility of reaching the maximum firing range of {{convert|40|km|mi|sp=us}}. An internal review predicted that the howitzer would achieve a localization rate of 107 out of 235 (45.5%) technologies by the late 1990s. Unsatisfied with the review, South Korea decided to continue developing main system, main gun, 155&nbsp;mm ammunition, fire control system, structure, and autoloader; meanwhile, the engine, transmission, and INS (inertial navigation system) were to be imported from foreign partners, and license produce hydropneumatic suspension to target 70% localization rate. The engineers faced the biggest challenges designing main gun and suspension due to lack of experience. While licensing the K55, its main gun was brought as a finished product and the suspension was produced from knowledge from the United States.<ref name="K9 Developer Interview (2)" /><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 8회] 적용가능 기술 45.5% 불과....국산화율 70%로 설정 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220303/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145609/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220303/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Based on a review of the required operational capability in October 1992, a firing rate of three shots within 15 seconds was chosen for economic feasibility. The rationale was that it is difficult for targets to be out of fatal range within 15 seconds after the first impact, and that the firing rate can be shortened depending on training level. If a firing rate of three shots in 10 seconds was demanded, it would have caused a huge increase in development costs as well as an unnecessary burden on researchers.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 15회] 신자포 개발 형태, 업체 주도로 전환할 수 있을까 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404151101/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The development was delayed between March and August 1993 as a result of purge of [[Hanahoe]], a private military club within the [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces]], who aligned with military dictator [[Chun Doo-hwan]], by president [[Kim Young-sam]] who was elected by democratic election. In addition, the army logistics department also refused to sign the letter of agreement for XK9 until a development plan for the maintenance elements is created.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 17회] 신자포, 하천 장애물을 극복해야 한다지만.... |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/6/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145552/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220420/6/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> When the Joint Chiefs of Staff finalized the system development agreement in late August 1993, the Defense Ministry approved a prototype development plan in September and the president approved the project in early October.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 18회] 모델명, 90년대 기필코 전력화 의지 담아 '9' 선택 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220425/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404152619/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220425/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Since domestically developed armor steel plates were applied for the first time, the researchers decided to produce and compare armor plates from both imported and domestic materials to reduce the risk. Meantime, Samsung began to train and employ master craftsman welders whose skills were verified by the U.S. Aberdeen Test Center. Armor plates went through a series of tests such as stress and ballistic impacts, and researchers verified that the domestic plate performed better than the imported plate.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 19회] 탁월한 장갑판재 용접실력...방호력 우수 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220429/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=13 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213061917/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220429/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The ADD saw that the HSU (Hydropneumatic Suspension Unit) provides better mobility and crew comfort. At that time, the HSU caused problems with some equipment and it was yet to be fully verified for durability, igniting controversy internationally. Therefore, it was inevitable to introduce and localize a British Air-Log (now Horstman) HSU that is used for the AS-90. However, when researchers applied the Air-Log HSU on the MTR and prototypes, they soon found that the HSU couldn't support heavier vehicles, thus failing the durability test. Since May 1997, engineers from the ADD and Dongmyeong Heavy Industries have spent a year on five redesigns and 11 durability tests. After the development of the new HSU, the design was exported back to Britain.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/16344|script-title=ko:[단독] K-9 자주포, 영국 수출길 오르나|publisher=Biz Hankook|date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616154049/http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/16344|archive-date=16 June 2022|access-date=16 June 2022|author=Kim Daeyeong}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220503/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do|title=[K9 20회] HSU 개발 '땅팔 일 없고 사격도 빠르고 정확히|publisher=kookbang|date=3 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616154049/http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/16344|archive-date=16 June 2022|access-date=16 June 2022|author=Shin Inho}}</ref>

Developers changed the power pack for the MTR with the combination of an 850&nbsp;hp engine from [[Detroit Diesel]], which offered a smaller cooling system, and [[Allison Transmission]]'s X1100 automatic transmission. This powertrain passed the tests on the MTR, but the engine failed on prototype vehicles due to low durability. The researchers looked for new engines from overseas. [[Perkins Engines]] and [[MTU Friedrichshafen]] showed interest in selling engines in August 1995. Perkins Engines offered the CV12 Condor, which was also used in the [[Challenger 2]], but detuned to 1,000&nbsp;hp. The price was slightly higher than that of Detroit Diesel; it was a relatively large 12-cylinder, which would require a design change on the chassis and there was a technical insufficiency of cooling devices. MTU's MT-881, though more expensive, offered a compact eight-cylinder with the same cutting-edge cooling system from the latest Euro Pack. The engine was also used for the PzH 2000 in Germany, and was undergoing trials in Germany and Canada. After examinations, the German design was chosen for the program, and was tested on an ATR (Automotive Test Rig) for a year starting in September 1997.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 23회] 우여곡절 끝 獨 MTU 엔진 장착 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220516/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-06 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145634/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220516/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In the spring of 1992, the test gun experienced a detonator breakage caused by a differential pressure, at which the pressure increases in the opposite direction of the shell. After many years of failures and updates, researchers decided to change the shape of the propellant in 1997. The tiny pellets of the U.S.-style propellant, which have seven holes similar to briquettes, were replaced with 19 holes by mimicking the German style without knowing the specification. After numerous tests, the gun achieved a range of {{convert|40|km|mi|sp=us}} below 53,000 psi in 1998.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 24회] 新자주포 포탄 독자개발 성공 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220516/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-11 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404151104/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220516/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

A total of three prototypes were built and performed their first open trials in 1996. During the test, the prototypes succeeded in firing at distances of {{convert|40|km|mi|sp=us}} and six rounds per minute, but failed to fire three rounds in 15 seconds.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 28회] 신자포 공개시범사격....급속사격은 못했지만··· |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220602/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-16 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145615/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220602/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 29회] ROC 수정... 전투중량 2톤 증가 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-16 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404154140/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> In December 1997, one of the prototypes was damaged by fire, due to failing complete combustion, after testing 18 rounds in three minutes. One researcher was killed and two injured. The damaged prototype's internal system survived the fire, and was repaired for further use. The prototypes fired 4,100 rounds and underwent {{convert|13800|km|mi|sp=us}} of mobility tests including extreme temperature conditions and various type of terrain such as ski courses during the winter season.<ref name="salesperson interview" /><ref name="K9 Developer Interview (3)" /><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 30회] 안타까운 사고...개발 성공으로 승화 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-16 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145606/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/3/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

After firing 12,000 rounds and driving {{convert|18000|km|mi|sp=us}} over 10 years, the development was finished in October 1998 with the achievement of an 87% localization rate.{{notetag|Korean standard for localization rate of military equipment is based on the money value of product.}}<ref name="ROK Defense Media Agency">{{cite web |date=2015-08-10 |script-title=ko:군인의 물건 군수품 돋보기 <15> K9 자주포와 K10 탄약운반차 |language=ko |url=https://demaclub.tistory.com/2743 |publisher=Republic of Korea Armed Forces Defense Media Agency}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=See reliable sources list on [[WP:KO/RS]]|date=March 2025}} The contract for the Batch I of K9 artillery system was awarded to Samsung Aerospace Industries in December 1998.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=101&oid=001&aid=0004342744 |script-title=ko:삼성항공, 국방부와 신형 자주포 공급계약 | publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=1998-12-22}}</ref> The produced vehicles were supposed to be delivered to the [[Republic of Korea Army]]. However, a [[Battle of Yeongpyeong (1999)|1999 naval battle between the two Koreas]] caused the delivery to be rerouted to the [[Republic of Korea Marine Corps]]. The first vehicle was rolled out in December 1999, and was given to the marines in [[Yeonpyeongdo]].<ref>{{cite web |date=2016-01-03 |title=[e-무기]34세 연구원의 희생 딛고 탄생한 'K-9 자주포' |language=ko |url=https://www.edaily.co.kr/news/read?newsId=01134886612514112&mediaCodeNo=257 |publisher=[[Edaily]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=102&oid=001&aid=0004503459 |script-title=ko:국방부, 155mm 신형자주포 배치 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=1999-12-17}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 31회] K9이 제때 완성되지 못했다면? |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/4/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-16 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145602/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220607/4/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==General characteristics==
The K9 is of welded construction, using {{convert|20000|kg|lb|sp=us}} of MIL-12560H armor steel developed by [[POSCO]] for [[K2 Black Panther]] project,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://newsroom.posco.com/kr/%ED%8F%AC%EC%8A%A4%EC%BD%94%EC%97%90%EB%8F%84-bts%EA%B0%80-%EC%9E%88%EB%8B%A4/|script-title=ko:포스코에도 BTS가 있다|publisher=[[POSCO]]|date=23 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220417004833/https://newsroom.posco.com/kr/%ED%8F%AC%EC%8A%A4%EC%BD%94%EC%97%90%EB%8F%84-bts%EA%B0%80-%EC%9E%88%EB%8B%A4/|archive-date=17 April 2022|access-date=17 April 2022|author=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.subcomsolutions.com/assets/pdf/POSCO-Armour-Plates.pdf|title=POSCO Armour Plates|publisher=Subcom Solution|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220417011756/https://www.subcomsolutions.com/assets/pdf/POSCO-Armour-Plates.pdf|archive-date=17 April 2022|access-date=17 April 2022|author=}}</ref> which can withstand explosion pressure and fragments from 152&nbsp;mm HE rounds, 14.5&nbsp;mm armor piercing rounds, and anti-personnel mines all around. The vehicle can protect crews from [[CBRN defense|CBRN threats]] using an air-purification system.<ref name="Hanwha Defense K9" />

The power-pack consists of a {{convert|1000|hp|kW|sp=us}} MT881Ka-500 MTU Friedrichshafen engine licensed by Ssangyong Heavy Industries (now STX Engine)<ref>{{cite web |title=STX Engine |url=http://www.stxengine.co.kr/kor/html/biz/military/army_03.aspx |website=STX ENGINE |language=Korean}}</ref> and an Allison Transmission X1100-5A3 transmission licensed by Tongil Precision Machinery Industries (now [[SNT Dynamics]]),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hisntd.com/kor/product/defense/mobile.html |title=SNT Dynamics}}</ref> and is installed on a [[hydropneumatic suspension]] chassis. Driven by Firstec driving system,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.firsteccom.co.kr/ |title=Firstec |publisher=Firstec}}</ref> the {{convert|47|t|sp=us}} vehicle has maximum speed of {{convert|67|km/h|mph|sp=us}} or maintains above 56&nbsp;km/h at 60% longitudinal slope, and is capable of operating in various terrain conditions including desert, snow, jungle, and mountains. It can also be deployed as self-propelled [[coastal artillery]] for surface targets, creating a no-access zone within  its firing range.<ref name="JoongAng K9A2" /><ref>{{Citation |script-title=ko:세계 최고 수준의 명품 자주포! [국군무기도감 시즌2:K9 자주포] | date=29 December 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9bX3NJlk4M |access-date=2023-09-05 |language=en}}</ref>

The main armament is a CN98 [[155&nbsp;mm]], 52-calibre artillery gun manufactured by Kia Heavy Industry (now [[Hyundai WIA]]),<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hyundai-wia.com/business/defense_ground_01.asp |title=Hyundai WIA |publisher=Hyundai WIA}}</ref> with a maximum firing range of {{convert|41|km|mi|sp=us}} with K307 rounds. Or {{convert|54|km|mi|sp=us}} with K315 rounds fired from the upgraded K9A1 variant. The CN98 is rated 1,000 EFC (equivalent full charge) with continuous firing under severe condition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kim |first=Jae-Kab |date=2006 |title=An Study on the Erosion Characteristics of Tube CN98 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/264016832_An_Study_on_the_Erosion_Characteristics_of_Tube_CN98 |website=ResearchGate}}</ref> The K9 stores 32 rounds in the bustle rack (16 rounds in each row), while an additional 16 rounds are stored at the rear of the hull (8 rounds on each side). Assisted by a semi-automatic feeding system, fire control system, and the Battalion Tactical Command System (BTCS), the vehicle can burst fire three rounds in 15 seconds and has the ability of [[multiple rounds simultaneous impact]] (MRSI) mode.<ref>{{Cite web |title= Finnish Army article on K9 Thunder |url=https://maavoimat.fi/en/self-propelled-howitzer-k9-thunder |access-date=2025-01-02}}</ref> It has a maximum rate of fire of six to eight rpm for three minutes (until emptying ammunitions store in the bustle), then reduced to two to three rpm for sustain fire (hand carrying ammunitions to feeder). The vehicle can [[shoot-and-scoot]] and be ready to fire in 30 seconds between stops or 60 seconds between maneuvers. After firing, it can relocate to a new position in 30 seconds to increase survivability from enemy counter-battery attacks.<ref name="Hanwha Defense K9" />

[[File:A live fire exercise of the K9 battery of the ROK Army.webm|thumb|thumbtime=1:42|A live fire exercise of the K9 battery of the [[Republic of Korea Army|ROK Army]]]]

The shells, fed by from a [[K10 ammunition resupply vehicle]], enter from the door behind the turret and are automatically rolled and loaded on the rack. When the shooting specification is decided, the chosen shell is placed on the tray in the center of the rack. A loader pulls the tray handle, and the shell slides into the carrier. Then the carrier repositions to the angle of shooting, and transfers the shell to the autoloader, which immediately "throws" the shell into the barrel.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 21회] 포탄 이송·장전을 자동화...탄약 취급 안전 보장 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220510/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-06 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145559/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220510/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The K9 uses the TALIN (Tactical Advanced Land Inertial Navigator) 5000 for its INS, purchased from [[Honeywell Aerospace]] after the announcement of the development of a [[ring laser gyroscope]] system that can withstand the shock from gunfire. The positioning device consists of a ring laser gyro that can detect up to one-ten-thousandth of Earth's rotational angular velocity, an accelerometer that can detect up to one-hundred-thousandth of Earth's gravitational acceleration, and a navigation computer that calculates using data detected by these sensors. This positioning device calculates the location of the self-propelled gun, the azimuth angle of the gun to the north, and the elevation and inclination angle of the earth's horizontal plane by itself. The calculated navigation information and posture information are provided to the fire control system, which has a positional accuracy within 10 m, an azimuthal accuracy within 0.7 mil, and an elevation and inclination angle accuracy within 0.35 mil.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 11회] 화포 자동화와 링 레이저 자이로 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220322/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145610/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220322/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The K9 has both manual (mechanical and optical) and automatic (electronic) fire control system. The manual fire control system is similar to that of K55, while the AFCS consists largely of a system controller, display, a shooting controller with a built-in ballistic program, a communication processor, and a power controller, and serves as an interface between the operator and the machine. Various electronic control devices such as positioning devices, gun & turret driving systems, ammunition transports, trigger devices, gun temperature sensors, and radios are interlinked to achieve automation. The AFCS uses ballistic programs and muzzle velocity sensors to calculate firing data on its own, as well as to receive shooting commands via data and voice communication from the BTCS. The FCS is the first of its kind in that it can calculate weather measurements by altitude, thus providing more precise shooting specifications.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 25회] 탄도·사격통제 독자개발 ... 완전 국산화 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220523/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-06-11 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=13 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213061917/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220523/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==Further developments==

===Ammunitions===

==== Extended range munitions ====
In October 2013, the DAPA announced a future plan for K9 upgrades along with a new extended range ammunition starting in 2014.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.korea.kr/news/pressReleaseView.do?newsId=155921643 |script-title=ko:제71회 방위사업추진위원회 개최결과 |publisher=Republic of Korea |date=2013-10-11}}</ref>

In August 2014, Hanwha and [[Poongsan Corporation|Poongsan]] were selected as the preferred bidders for new extended ammunition used for both the K9 and the K55A1. The two companies will compete to win the project.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hankyung.com/politics/article/201408129743i |script-title=ko:사거리연장탄 개발놓고 한화와 풍산 정면대결 |publisher=[[The Korea Economic Daily]] |date=2014-08-12}}</ref>

In July 2019, Hanwha was removed from the new ammunition project due to unsatisfactory results, making Poongsan the sole bidder.<ref>{{cite web|date=2019-07-11|title=(주)한화, 성과 미달로 방위청으로부터 계약 해지 통보 받아|url=http://www.discoverynews.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=107664|access-date=2021-08-31|website=디스커버리뉴스(DISCOVERYNEWS)|language=ko}}</ref>

In November 2020, new extended-range ammunition by Poongsan was accepted for service after years of tests. The new ammunition combines BB (base bleed) with RAP (rocket-assisted propulsion), reaching 54&nbsp;km with HE or 45&nbsp;km with [[Dual-purpose improved conventional munition|DP-ICM]]. The manufacturing will start in 2022, and will be operational by 2023.<ref>{{cite web|date=2020-11-26|script-title=ko:[단독] '최대 54km 타격' K9 자주포 155mm 사거리 연장탄 개발 완료|url=http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/21026|access-date=2021-08-31|website=비즈한국|language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|script-title=ko:탄탄한 기술력이 일군 탄약 국산화 이제 세계가 배운다|url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20210423/3/BBSMSTR_000000100147/view.do|access-date=2021-09-02|website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]]|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404154149/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20210423/3/BBSMSTR_000000100147/view.do|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, the introduction was delayed as 5 out of 77 items did not meet the standards during [[heat wave]] and [[cold wave]] tests.<ref>{{Cite web |last=홍 |first=석희 |date=2023-02-20 |script-title=ko:[단독] 무기체계 47%는 자료만 보고 수입했다..."年 수천억대 추가 비용" |url=http://biz.heraldcorp.com/view.php?ud=20230220000080 |access-date=2023-09-01 |website=헤럴드경제 |language=ko}}</ref>

In February 2023, the South Korean military accepted new high performance [[5.56×45mm NATO]] and [[7.62×51mm NATO]] ammunition that increases performance by three times compared to previous models. The new technology can be applied on any projectiles, allowing K9 Thunder to possibly increase the range by three times. The technology is patented in the United States, Russia, the European Union, and other countries.<ref>{{Citation |script-title=ko:[단독] 이번엔 K-총탄‥탱크 뚫는 총알 도입하나? (2023.06.06/뉴스데스크/MBC) | date=6 June 2023 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thFbWRfXZnE |access-date=2023-08-27 |language=en}}</ref>

In August 2023, Poongsang Corporation announced completion the 60&nbsp;km extended range ammunition development. The new ammunition was expected to enter service in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-29 |script-title=ko:풍산, K방산 기술력 강화...155mm 사거리 연장탄 개발 |url=http://www.snmnews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=522353 |access-date=2023-09-01 |website=철강금속신문 |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=K9 계열 자주포 최대 사거리 40km → 60km |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20230830/1/ATCE_CTGR_0010020000/view.do |access-date=2023-09-01 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |language=ko }}{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 6 February 2024, the DAPA announced completion of the 54&nbsp;km extended range program. New ammunition, known as LAP, is scheduled for mass production in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=이 |first=종윤 |date=2024-02-06 |title=155㎜ 자주포 사거리연장탄 개발 완료, 40→60㎞로 늘어 |url=https://www.fnnews.com/news/202402061106570222 |access-date=2024-02-07 |website=[[The Financial News]] |language=ko-KR}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=김 |first=준태 |date=2024-02-06 |title=155㎜ 자주포 사거리연장탄 개발 완료…40→60㎞로 늘어 |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20240206030700504 |access-date=2024-02-07 |website=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-06 |title=K-9 사거리, 30% 확장…올해부터 LAP탄 양산 돌입 |url=https://www.obsnews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1430231 |access-date=2024-02-19 |website=OBS경인TV |language=ko}}</ref>

On 29 May 2025 at MADEX 2025 , Poongsan said the 60&nbsp;km range ammunition named "ERM-HE" (Extended Range Munition-High Explosive) has 30&nbsp;m circular error probability (CEP).<ref>{{Cite web |last=최 |first=대성 |date=2025-05-29 |title=[MADEX 2025] LIG넥스원·풍산, 새로운 '도전' 성공할까 |url=https://www.safetimes.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=230604 |website=Safe Times}}</ref>

==== Special munitions ====
Poongsan also has been working on different types of ammunition, such as POM (PARA – Observation Munition) and GGAM (Gliding Guided Artillery Munition) since 2013 and 2014 respectively.<ref>{{cite web|date=2020-04-09|script-title=ko:장사정 활공포탄 / 관측탄 / 상부공격 지능탄|url=http://www.defensetoday.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=743|access-date=2021-09-02|website=디펜스투데이|language=ko}}</ref>

====Foreign compatibility====
In 2010, K9 test fired [[M982 Excalibur]] during Australia's Land 17 artillery replacement program.<ref name="Defense Today K9" />

In May 2016, K9 test fired JBMoU (Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding) compliant HE-ER ammunition in Sweden successfully, reaching 43&nbsp;km in distance.<ref name="Defense Today K9" />

In September 2022, a K9A1 SPH and a K10 ARV demonstrated compatibility with a variety of American munitions in a live-fire test at [[Yuma Proving Ground]] in [[Arizona]]. The howitzer managed to fire 3 rounds in 16 seconds and 6 rounds in 43.3 seconds using [[M795 projectile]]s. K9A1 became the first foreign platform to fire XM1113 RAP munition and achieved 53&nbsp;km in shooting distance at an elevation of 900 mils.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Valpolini |first=Paolo |date=2022-10-07 |title=Hanwha's K9 artillery solutions proven compatible with US munitions |url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/hanwhas-k9-artillery-solutions-proven-compatible-with-us-munitions |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=EDR Magazine |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-16 |title=K9A1 now fires US munitions - three rounds in 16 sec and 50km range |url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2022/10/16/k9a1-now-fires-us-munitions-three-rounds-in-16-sec-and-50km-range/ |access-date=2022-12-02 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="K9 and K10 with US munitions fire demo">{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cBbAaqOCMo |title=K9 and K10 proven compatibility with US munitions at YPG live-fire demo |date=10 Nov 2022 |publisher=Hanwha Aerospace}}</ref>

In November 2023, Hanwha Aerospace signed a 160 billion KRW export deal with BAE Systems to supply a modular charge system (MCS) for NATO members.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=ko:한화, NATO 호환 155mm 장약 첫 수출... "英과 전방위 방산협력" |url=https://www.hanwhaaerospace.co.kr/kor/media/newsroom/view.do?seq=369 |access-date=2023-12-05 |website=www.hanwhaaerospace.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

In April 2024, Hanwha Aerospace conducted test fires of the M982A1 Excalibur Increment Ib at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona using Norwegian K9 VIDAR variant. The K9 used various fuze modes and achieved less than one meter circular error probability (CEP) in Point Detonating mode and 5 meters above the target in Height of Burst mode from 50&nbsp;km away.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-10 |title=K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer Achieves Milestone with Raytheon M982A1 Excalibur Artillery Projectile |url=https://militaryleak.com/2024/08/10/k9-self-propelled-howitzer-achieves-milestone-with-raytheon-m982a1-excalibur-artillery-projectile/ |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=militaryleak.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-07 |title=Hanwha: K9 howitzer successfully tested with Excalibur artillery projectile |url=https://defence-industry.eu/hanwha-k9-howitzer-successfully-tested-with-excalibur-artillery-projectile/ |access-date=2024-08-29 |language=en}}</ref>

===Electronics and sensors===
In 2004, KRCMI (Korea Research Center for Measuring Instruments) developed a [[Doppler radar]] calibration system, which significantly increased accuracy by lowering the impact error from 0.1% to 0.05%.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.newsmaker.or.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=68923 |title='2018 계량측정의 날' 동탑산업훈장 수훈 |publisher=NewsMaker |date=2018-12-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.korea.kr/news/pressReleaseView.do?newsId=156301496 |script-title=ko:국민행복과 신뢰의 기반은 정확한 계량측정에서 |publisher=Republic of Korea |date=2018-10-31}}</ref> Using the new technology, the ADD and DST (Davit System Technology) launched a joint project for a domestic MVRS (muzzle velocity radar system). In September 2007, DST announced the development of model MVRS-3000, increasing both performance and localization of the vehicle.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.fnnews.com/news/200709182223484626?t=y |script-title=ko:포구속도측정기 국산화 성공 |publisher=[[The Financial News]] |date=2007-09-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://dst.co.kr/html/sub02/sub02_0201.php |title=DST Radar |publisher=DST}}</ref>

In February 2012, the [[Defense Acquisition Program Administration]] (DAPA) launched an arms localization project, which includes the K9's INS.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.mt.co.kr/mtview.php?no=2012020914168224405&outlink=1&ref=https%3A%2F%2F |script-title=ko:방사청 "핵심무기 부품 국산화 실현한다" |publisher=[[Money Today]] |date=2012-02-09}}</ref> In May 2012, Doosan DST was selected for the domestic INS development.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.news1.kr/articles/674030 |script-title=ko:방사청, 핵심부품 국산화 개발에 박차 |publisher=News 1 |date=2021-05-18}}</ref> The plan to install a domestic INS on the K9 was later changed to license production in 2015, while domestic models were to be used for the [[K21]] and the [[K30 Biho|K30]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=101&oid=011&aid=0002812667 |script-title=ko:탄약서 자주포.레이더까지...한화 '글로벌 톱10 방산기업' 정조준 |publisher=Seoul Economics |date=2016-03-30}}</ref>

In September 2015, offset trade was signed between [[Honeywell Aerospace]] and Navcours. Under the agreement, Navcours will license production and service of the TALIN 5000 INS, which is already being used in the K9 and K55A1, for domestic use, and supply Honeywell Aerospace as well.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://kr.aving.net/news/view.php?articleId=1277628&Branch_ID=kr&rssid |script-title=ko:하니웰, 넵코어스와 'TALIN관성항법장치' 관련 협력 계약 체결 |publisher=Aving Global Network |date=2015-09-02}}</ref>

===Logistics and operational improvements===
In December 2006, the South Korean military distributed a digital manual for the K10. The manual was developed with a budget of 1 billion KRW. It can easily identify the equipment composition, specifications, operation procedures, operating principles, maintenance tips, and signs of failure of the K10 ARV. It visualizes the vehicle in 3D virtual reality, so operators can easily understand compared to conventional text-based manuals.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=ko:가상현실 이용한 'K-10' 교보재 개발 |url=https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/001/0001507135?sid=100 |access-date=2022-08-19 |website=[[Naver News]] |language=ko}}</ref> After seeing significant improvement in training efficiency, operating capability, and soldiers' maintenance skill, a digital manual was also adopted for the K9 in May 2007.<ref>{{Cite web |title=K-9 자주포 전자식 교보재 개발 완료 |url=https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/234/0000000096?sid=123 |access-date=2022-08-19 |website=[[Naver News]] |language=ko}}</ref>

In May 2018, an ABC (Automatic Bore Cleaner) model RB-155 by SDI (SooSung Defense Industries) was adapted for the South Korean K9. The automatic cleaner provides efficiency in maintenance by requiring just one person to clean the barrel in 20 minutes, with incomparable results compared to conventional cleaning.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.mk.co.kr/news/society/view/2018/05/303633/ |script-title=ko:수성정밀기계, K9 자주포 자동청소기 국방부 공급 |publisher=[[Maeil Business Newspaper]] |date=2018-05-13}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media |date=2014-11-12 |title=Automatic Bore Cleaner – Soosung Defense Industries, Ltd. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5OkA4FezoE  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/v5OkA4FezoE |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=SooSung Defense Industries LTD}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

As of June 2023, the localization rate is at 80%. Several minor upgrades were added, such as structural changes to the chassis to shorten the time to remove the power pack from hours to ten minutes.<ref>{{Cite web |last=이 |first=수기 |date=2023-06-20 |script-title=ko:폴란드·인도 사로잡은 K9 자주포..."다음 목표는 무인화" |url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25170992 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[JoongAng Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref>

On 8 December 2023, Norway, Finland, and South Korea signed an agreement for the two Nordic countries to share spare parts without submitting signed applications to South Korea. The agreement allows Norway and Finland to simply send a report after the parts sharing has occurred, which shortens processing time and thus improves logistics support.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Forsvarsdepartementet |date=2023-12-08 |title=Norway, Finland and South Korea have all signed an agreement to enhance Norwegian defence capabilities. |url=https://www.regjeringen.no/en/aktuelt/norway-finland-and-south-korea-have-all-signed-an-agreement-to-enhance-norwegian-defence-capabilities/id3017673/ |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=Regjeringen.no |language=en-GB}}</ref>

====International training program====
On 20 June 2024, the Republic of Korea Army and Hanwha Aerospace signed an MOU on cooperation and support for the promotion of the Korea-Army International Course (K-AIC), a Korean weapons system curriculum that will begin in July. The program was created to provide Korean military regular training to nations that have purchased or plan to purchase Korean weapons. Under the agreement, the army will run separate training programs specialized for foreign soldiers twice a year in connection with various military schools, including the artillery school (K9 SPH) and the mechanized school (K2 MBT). Participants will also train on equipment and combat operation for four weeks and observe the [[Korea Combat Training Center]] (KCTC) as well as manufacturing plants.<ref>{{Cite web  |script-title=ko:외국군에 국산 무기체계 교육 국제과정 개설 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20240621/7/ATCE_CTGR_0010030000/view.do |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref>

List of the K-AIC participants without the purchase, thus candidates for future sales: Qatar, Vietnam<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-22 |script-title=ko:육군, K9 등 국산 무기체계 도입 7개국 대상 장비 운용 교육 |url=https://www.sedaily.com/NewsView/2DGY0BJCPV |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=[[The Seoul Economic Daily]] |language=ko}}</ref>

===Mobility===
In October 2013, Daeshin Metal became the major parts supplier for Allison Transmission in making X1100-5A3 as an offset trade, further increasing localization. Applicated transmission will be equipped starting on the Batch X and the Batch V production of K9 and K10 respectively.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.korea.kr/news/pressReleaseView.do?newsId=155921390 |script-title=ko:절충교역 통해 중소기업 방산수출 530만불 달성 |publisher=Republic of Korea |date=2013-10-10}}</ref>

====Domestic engine====
[[File:STX SMV1000 engine.jpg|thumb|STX SMV1000 engine]]
In September 2020, the DAPA launched a project for indigenous engines for the vehicle. The project is expected to cost ₩75 billion over a period of 5 years.<ref>{{cite web|title='K9 자주포' 엔진 국산화 추진...내년부터 750억원 투입|url=https://news.kbs.co.kr/news/view.do?ncd=5004470&ref=A|access-date=2021-08-31|website=[[KBS News]]|language=ko}}</ref>

On 31 May 2021, engine manufacturer [[STX Engine]] was selected as the winner after competing against Doosan Infracore (now [[HD Hyundai Infracore]]).<ref>{{cite news|last=황 |first=봉규|date=2021-05-31|title=STX엔진, K9 자주포 엔진 국산화 사업자 선정|url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20210531114100052|access-date=2021-09-01|website=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|language=ko}}</ref>

On 26 November 2021, British engineering company [[Ricardo PLC]] has won a contract from STX Engine to help develop a clean-sheet engine for the K9 howitzer. Under the contract, STX Engine engineers will embed with Ricardo's engineering development team to facilitate knowledge transfer and accelerate development. Ricardo stated that the objective was to integrate seamlessly with the K9 vehicle to enable South Korean to resolve [[license]] barriers for [[export]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ricardo nets contract from STX Engine for South Korean project {{!}} Shephard |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ricardo-nets-contract-from-stx-engine-for-new-heav/ |access-date=2024-10-03 |website=www.shephardmedia.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2021-11-27|script-title=ko:[단독] 한화디펜스, K9자주포 국산 엔진 장착 추진|url=https://www.g-enews.com/view.php?ud=2021112708065213822bb03d9507_1|access-date=2021-12-12|website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]]|language=ko}}</ref>

On 21 September at the DX Korea 2022 exposition, STX Engine presented a newly designed 1,000&nbsp;hp diesel engine for the K9.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-21 |title=[DX KOREA 2022] STX엔진, K9 자주포 1000마력 개발 엔진 등 소개 |url=https://www.fntimes.com/html/view.php?ud=20220921181932637999ebb03838_18 |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=FNTIMES |language=ko}}</ref>

On 8 December 2023, the media reported that STX Engine completed the [[durability]] test of the new engine, the SMV1000, and it will be installed on the howitzer for the driving test. The SMV1000 can be installed without requiring any structural changes to the K9, [[K10 ammunition resupply vehicle|K10]], or [[K21|AS21 Redback]], and is {{convert|76|kg|lb|sp=us}} lighter in weight, 5% better [[fuel efficiency]] compared to MT881, and has improved low-temperature startability. The SMV1000 will be installed in K9A1EGY and K10EGY for [[Egypt]] and AS21 for [[Australia]]. The new engine will replace the German design to avoid [[export restriction]]s.<ref name="KNnews 2024-09-27">{{cite web|url=https://www.knnews.co.kr/news/articleView.php?idxno=1443050|title=K9 자주포 국산 엔진 양산 성공… 창원서 1호 엔진 출고|publisher=[[Kyongnam Shinmun]]|date=27 September 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004232910/https://www.knnews.co.kr/news/articleView.php?idxno=1443050|archivedate=4 October 2024|accessdate=4 October 2024|author1=Jeon Gang-yong}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-08 |script-title=ko:[단독] STX엔진 'K9 자주포' 디젤엔진 국산화 내구도 시험 완료 "중동 추가수출 파란불" |url=http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/26737 |access-date=2023-12-21 |website=비즈한국 |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-30 |title=ko:STX엔진, K9 자주포 엔진 국산화 '개가'..."수출 확대 청신호" |url=https://www.paxetv.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=213341 |access-date=2024-11-25 |website=PAX경제 |language=ko}}</ref> Egypt has purchased 355 engines at 134.8 billion KRW for its K9 program.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-28 |title='K9 자주포 엔진 부품 국산화' '장애인 운동보조 슈트형 로봇' 등 첨단 기술 총망라 |url=https://www.donga.com/news/Economy/article/all/20231227/122802578/1 |access-date=2023-12-30 |website=[[The Dong-A Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref name="Egypt Engine">{{Cite web |date=2023-12-08 |script-title=ko:[단독] STX엔진 'K9 자주포' 디젤엔진 국산화 내구도 시험 완료 "중동 추가수출 파란불" |url=http://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/26737 |access-date=2023-12-30 |website=비즈한국 |language=ko}}</ref>

On 4 February 2024, the first K9 with the SMV1000 engine was revealed at the World Defense Show 2024 in [[Saudi Arabia]], along with domestic [[automatic transmission]] from SNT Dynamics.<ref>{{Cite web |last=김 |first=동규 |date=2024-02-11 |title=獨 허가받고 수출하던 K-9 자주포, 국산엔진 달고 수출길 활짝 |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20240210025500003 |access-date=2024-02-19 |website=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=노 |first=주섭 |date=2024-02-05 |script-title=ko:방위사업 영토 넓히는 SNT… 최신 무기로 중동에 '눈도장' |url=https://www.fnnews.com/news/202402051914398094 |access-date=2024-02-19 |website=[[The Financial News]] |language=ko-KR}}</ref>

The STX Engine began [[mass production]] in September 2024 after completing the development of its domestic SMV1000 engine from 2020 to 2023 to circumvent [[export control]]s on German [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] engines in future [[International trade|export market]]s.<ref name="DAPA 2024-09-27">{{cite web|url=https://www.dapa.go.kr/common/nttFileDownload.do?fileKey=76739d7d59e357e599ad26066a10a09f|title=K9 자주포 국산 엔진 양산...K-방산 해외진출 이끈다|publisher=[[Defense Acquisition Program Administration]]|date=27 September 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240930170216/https://www.dapa.go.kr/common/nttFileDownload.do?fileKey=76739d7d59e357e599ad26066a10a09f|archivedate=30 September 2024|accessdate=30 September 2024|author1=}}</ref><ref name="iM SECURITIES STX Engine">{{cite web|url=https://file.alphasquare.co.kr/media/pdfs/company-report/[11073220]_077970.pdf|title=STX엔진|publisher=iM SECURITIES CO., LTD.|date=11 March 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241002002552/https://file.alphasquare.co.kr/media/pdfs/company-report/%5B11073220%5D_077970.pdf|archivedate=2 October 2024|accessdate=2 October 2024|author1=}}</ref> With the development of domestic engines after three years of development, all 500 German-made parts previously used in German MTU engines have been replaced with parts developed in South Korea. The domestic engine will be proposed or supplied as an alternative to the German-made engine to countries that are banned from exporting German products when exporting the K9 in the future.<ref name="DAPA 2024-09-27" /><ref name="iM SECURITIES STX Engine" />

===Protection===
On 7 May 2021, Hanwha Defense announced a cooperation with the Australian company HIFraser in supplying AFSS for AS9 and AS10 for Australia. HIFraser will start to assist Korean company DNB Co in delivery of AFSS to Korean operated K9s as well.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-05-07|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 호주 엔지니어링 회사와 계약..."차량화재 안전성 강화"|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=21287|access-date=2021-09-01|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref>

In February 2022, Hanwha Defense signed a [[memorandum of understanding]] with the Australian company Bisalloy Steels in supplying armor plate for the AS9, AS10, and AS21 Redback to reduce manufacturing cost and to strengthen their partnership. Hanwha Defense plans to use armour steel from Bisalloy Steels for foreign exports, including an Egyptian variant, while [[POSCO]] continues to supply steel for domestic production.<ref>{{cite web|last=tf.co.kr|date=2022-02-15|script-title=ko:한화디펜스,이집트 수출·K-9자주포에 호주산 강재 쓴다|url=http://news.tf.co.kr/read/economy/1918807.htm|access-date=2022-02-20|website=더팩트|language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2022-02-16|title=K9 자주포 수출 물량, 국산 방탄강 후판 아닌 호주산 철강 적용키로|url=http://www.snmnews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=491107|access-date=2022-02-20|website=철강금속신문|language=ko}}</ref>

==Upgrades==

===K9A1===
In September 2010, a major issue regarding the engine was brought up by the defense committee. According to the report, a total of 38 K9s experienced engine cavitation since 2005. Initial investigation prior to the discussion suggested that the use of 3rd party manufactured antifreeze may have caused the engine cavitation.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.asiae.co.kr/news/view.htm?idxno=2010090820401777060 |title=K-9 자주포에 엉뚱한 부동액 넣어 엔진 고장 |publisher=Asian Economy |date=2010-09-08}}</ref> Using the recommended TK-6-03-01012 antifreeze did not solve the problem, suggesting that the antifreeze was not the cause of the issue.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.heraldcorp.com/military/view.php?ud=20100909000969 |title=K-9 자주포, 전용 부동액도 이상 |publisher=[[Herald Corporation]] |date=2010-09-09}}</ref> A member of the defense committee mentioned that the Turkish T-155, which uses an identical mobile system but has an APU (auxiliary power unit) installed, never reported such a case.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=100&oid=001&aid=0004649623 |script-title=ko:안규백 "K-9 자주포, 전용부동액에도 이상" |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2010-09-09}}</ref> The military chose to study the issue further by monitoring how antifreeze affects the engine, and testing the APU when the vehicle is in idle.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.asiae.co.kr/news/view.htm?idxno=2010091514395704230 |script-title=ko:[주력무기 K계열 무엇이 문제인가]②삼성테크윈의 K9자주포 |publisher=Asian Economy |date=2010-09-15}}</ref> Installing an APU on the K9 was discussed during its development phase, but was not adapted for mass production.<ref name="K9 Upgrade feature">{{cite AV media |date=2020-11-08 |script-title=ko:[군금해?!] 진화하는 K9자주포 |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRM7R2FOhBY |publisher=국방TV}}</ref>

In September 2011, the Defense Committee addressed issues regarding the K9 Thunder's FCS (fire control system), noting that its computer and OS (operating system) are discontinued and outdated, thus increasing related logistics cost by 70% over past 3 years. India expressed the same concern during evaluation. The first produced 24 K9s are equipped with [[i386]] and the rest are with [[i486]]; [[DOS]] is installed on both types. On the other hand, Samsung Techwin argued that both the processor and the OS are widely used in the military including newly produced weapons, that older CPUs are more durable, and that DOS has a lower failure rate.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.ddaily.co.kr/news/article/?no=82546 |title=K-9 자주포에 왜 386컴퓨터와 DOS를 쓸까? |publisher=Digital Daily |date=2011-09-22}}</ref>

The military was determined to launch a FCS upgrade program starting in 2013 for both logistical reason's and Australia's request.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=100&oid=001&aid=0005272402 |title="2011년 생산 K-9에 99년형 386급 도스컴퓨터" |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2011-09-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=100&oid=086&aid=0002072332 |script-title=ko:육군, 수도군단 해체계획 "없던 일로" |publisher=The Naeil News |date=2011-09-29}}</ref> In December 2013, the DAPA awarded Samsung Techwin as a main provider for the K9 upgrade program.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.etoday.co.kr/news/view/842783 |script-title=ko:삼성테크윈, 방위사업청과 6126억 규모 공급 계약 |publisher=eToday |date=2013-12-24}}</ref>

In March 2015, the South Korean military announced that Samsung Techwin was developing a driver's safety system, as a consequence of an accident resulting in the death of an operator in January 2015. Under the safety system, the turret rotation automatically stops if the driver's hatch remains open and is at a dangerous angle to the driver. The feature can be turned off if necessary.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.donga.com/news/article/all/20150303/69911577/1 |script-title=ko:'조종수 사망' K-9 자주포 성능개선키로 |publisher=[[The Dong-A Ilbo]] |date=2015-03-03}}</ref>

In August 2017, the DAPA approved the serial production of upgraded K9s. K9A1 upgrades include an automatic FCS, combining GPS system to INS, an improved driver's night periscope with thermal frontal camera, a rear view camera, and a driver's safety system. The 8&nbsp;kW [[auxiliary power unit]] (APU) is provided by Farymann & TZEN co, Ltd.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tzen.co.kr/english/product/product3.html|title=Auxiliary Power Units(APU)|publisher=Farymann & TZEN|date=2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307115325/http://www.tzen.co.kr/english/product/product3.html|archive-date=7 March 2022|access-date=7 March 2022|author=Farymann & TZEN}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.edaily.co.kr/news/read?newsId=03762166622653904&mediaCodeNo=257&OutLnkChk=Y|script-title=ko:방산 중소기업 '페리만&티젠', 궤도차량 수평식 디젤엔진 선보여|publisher=[[Edaily]]|date=17 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307120453/https://www.edaily.co.kr/news/read?newsId=03762166622653904&mediaCodeNo=257&OutLnkChk=Y|archive-date=7 March 2022|access-date=7 March 2022|author=Kim Gwanyong}}</ref> A1 standard also allows to shoot new extended range ammunition.<ref name="Hanwha Defense K9" /> All Korean K9s will receive A1 upgrades along with a 12-year cycle overhaul at the Army Consolidated Maintenance Depot starting in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.kbs.co.kr/news/view.do?ncd=3535685&ref=A |title=軍, 육군·해병대 K-9 자주포 내년부터 성능개량 |publisher=[[Korean Broadcasting System]] |date=2017-08-18}}</ref><ref name="CMD 2022">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRHK6pj-u-E |title=[K9A1, 명품의 재탄생] K9 자주포 완전분해! 성능개량+창정비 현장! |date=2022-02-06 |last=KFN뉴스 |access-date=2024-09-18 |via=YouTube}}</ref> The first K9A1 joined the Republic of Korea Army in August 2018.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.sedaily.com/NewsView/1S3HI4W3GE |script-title=ko:자동사격통제·보조동력 장착¨더 세진 '개량 자주포' 떴다 |publisher=Seoul Economics |date=2018-08-24}}</ref> According to the magazine published by the DAPA in October 2024, South Korea plans to upgrade 600 vehicles to A1 standard.<ref name="600 K9A1">{{Cite web |script-title=ko:청아람 :: 사업편 :: 정확도를 높이는 위력 장착을 위해 |url=https://dapa-magazine.kr/page/vol138/02.html |access-date=2024-11-29 |website=dapa-magazine.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

Details of the K9A1 upgrade:<ref>{{cite web|script-title=ko:[단독] 육군7포병여단 백호대대, K9A1 자주포 사격훈련|url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20210804/11/BBSMSTR_000000010023/view.do|access-date=2021-09-01|website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]]|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404145639/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20210804/11/BBSMSTR_000000010023/view.do|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Installation of APU : The APU allows the vehicle to react and fire without running the main engine, thus reduces fuel consumption. Crew members can operate without being exposed to the engine noise. Since the engine no longer needs to operate when the vehicle is stationary, the cost for engine maintenance was reduced.
* Enhanced driver's system : The driver's night periscope was changed from [[image intensifier]] to [[FLIR]], and can be viewed from the monitor. A rear view camera was installed. The driver's safety system disables the turret to rotate at a certain angle when the driver's hatch is open. The feature can be turned off if necessary.
* GPS : By combining INS and GPS, the vehicle can locate itself more precisely and faster by complementing each other, which also increases accuracy.
* Enhanced FCS : The computer and OS are upgraded. Software such as a field manual and ammunition monitoring are installed. The FCS is fully automated by using an electronic fuse setter and ammunition management system. The new FCS occupies less space, and is programmed for new extended range ammunition (60&nbsp;km).

===K9A2===

In May 2016, the DAPA announced the concept for a robotic howitzer at the international artillery conference held in the United Kingdom. The DAPA then launched several projects consisting of [[insensitive munition|insensitive charge]], better rifling of the main gun, and a fully automated loading system. The upgraded K9 will have longer range, faster firing rates, and reduced crew members—similar capabilities to the United States' canceled [[XM2001 Crusader]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.sedaily.com/NewsView/1KXSI4SCIA |script-title=ko:크루세이더급 K-9 탄생하나? |publisher=Seoul Economics |date=2016-06-30}}</ref>

In August 2021, the ADD and Hanwha Defense completed the development of a high-response artillery automation system started in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-20 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 방위산업수출 첨병...K9 자주포 5조 계약 |url=https://www.mk.co.kr/news/special-edition/view/2022/04/350104/ |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Maeil Business Newspaper]] |language=ko}}</ref> The new system is essential for a future remote controlled variant, and will enable a fully automated loading system including charges and fuse set—increasing the fire rate by 1.5 times.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-11-30|script-title=ko:진화하는 'K9 자주포'...산악·설원·정글·사막 다 통한다|url=https://www.nocutnews.co.kr/news/5665581|access-date=2021-12-12|website=[[No Cut News]]}}</ref> Developers originally designed munitions to be stored in the chassis. Due to the limited turret rotation, gun elevation, and to reduce the distance of munitions moving to the chamber for faster reloading, the location of the munitions was changed from the chassis to the turret.<ref name="K9A2 UK interview"/>

The [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces]] will confirm the ROC for K9A2 Block-I upgrade in March 2022. The K9A2 is expected to be operational by 2027. The military is designing the K9A3, with a firing range of 100&nbsp;km.<ref>{{cite web|last=정 |first=동훈|date=2022-02-17|script-title=ko:[단독] K-9 '괴물' 자주포로 재탄생 '자동장전' 성능개량 다음달 확정|url=https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2022/politics/article/6342500_35666.html|access-date=2022-02-20|website=[[MBC News]]|language=ko}}</ref> The operational K9A2 technology demonstrator was revealed to the public by Hanwha Defense in February 2022.<ref name="K9 Egypt & K9A2">{{Citation|title=Global No. 1 SPH, K9 Thunder| date=21 February 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zISxRSaW-Lc|language=en|access-date=2022-02-22}}</ref> In March 2022, the high-response artillery automation system was shown to the public.<ref name="JoongAng K9A2" /> The vehicle's turret is extended in length for installation of an autoloader. Its centre location is better than previous variants. The prototype weighs 48.5 t (combat) with metal tracks, which can be decreased by more than 2 t by switching to composite rubber tracks. Reduced weight can contribute to the installation of additional armor or subsystems.<ref name="K9A2 UK interview"/>

In July 2022, the Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee approved a proposal of 2.36 trillion KRW for 2023 to 2034 in development, and an upgrade of the K9A2 Block-I.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.konas.net/article/article.asp?idx=59036|title=K9자주포 국내연구개발로 성능개량|publisher=KONAS|date=18 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220803060222/https://www.konas.net/article/article.asp?idx=59036|archive-date=3 August 2022|access-date=3 August 2022|author=Choe Gyeongseon}}</ref>

In June 2023, the DAPA authorized the development of K9A2 Block-I with a budget of 2.36 trillion KRW for 2023 to 2027.<ref>{{Cite web |title='K9 자주포' 타격 능력 향상...4년간 2조3600억 원 투입 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20230627/1/ATCE_CTGR_0010020000/view.do |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |language=ko |archive-date=26 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826060959/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20230627/1/ATCE_CTGR_0010020000/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> South Korea plans to upgrade basic K9s to K9A2 standard, and achieve full operational capability by 2034.<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2023-06-26 |title=K-9 자주포 '송탄·장전 자동화' 본궤도... 발사 속도 1.5배+인원 40%↓ |url=https://www.news1.kr/articles/5088096 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[News1 (South Korean company)|News1]] |language=ko}}</ref>

Details of the K9A2 upgrade:<ref name="JoongAng K9A2" /><ref>{{Citation |title=K9A2 리얼웨폰205 ㅣ국방홍보원 | date=22 August 2023 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiezEI0XiSE |access-date=2023-08-26 |language=en}}</ref>
* Enhanced main gun : New rifling and chrome plating will increase barrel life from 1,000 EFC to 1,500 EFC, longer range, and allow faster firing rate.
* High-response artillery automation system : Key feature of the A2 and future A3 upgrade. Reduces crew number from 5 to 3 (2 in emergency) by installing a fully automated autoloading system, which increases the maximum firing rate from 6 to 8 rds/min to 9 to 10 rds/min and sustain firing rate from 2 to 3 rds/min to 4 to 6 rds/min.
* Increased sustained fire : All 48 rounds are located in the turret, and are accessible with the autoloader.
* Turret driving system : Changes from an electrohydraulic to an electric driving system.
* Automatic fire suppress system (AFSS) : Enhanced fire suppress system for crew protection.
* Remote controlled weapon station (RCWS) : Enables use of a secondary weapon without exposing a crew member.
* Air conditioning : Increases crew comfort by cooling down the temperature.
* Modular charge system (MCS): Provides crew protection from secondary explosions due to enemy fire including heavy weapons, by adapting insensitive charge, and required for the automatic loading process.
* Composite rubber track (CRT): Provides crew comfort by reducing vibration, noise, and lesser required maintenance. Reduced weight improves the vehicle's operational range. The rubber has a lower fatality from fragments to surrounding soldiers, compared to metal when under attack.<ref name="K9 UK partners interview"/>
* Enhanced armor : Anti-tank mine protection. Similar to the AS9 Huntsman standard.{{char|?}}

===K9A3===

In 2020, the DAPA announced the K9A3 upgrade plan will apply unmanned technology and achieve 100&nbsp;km shooting distance using gliding ammunition. The DAPA talked about the development of a super long-range cannon or a [[railgun]] to be mounted on the next generation of self-propelled howitzers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-24 |script-title=ko:미·러, 사거리 100km 미래형 자주포 경쟁에 K-9도 진화 중 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Industry/2022/04/20220424132740533414fb262fcb_1 |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |language=ko}}</ref>

In September 2022, the ADD began research into increasing the firing range of the howitzer. The new variant is expected to equip a 58 caliber gun, similar to the [[US Army]]'s [[M1299 howitzer]] and ramjet munitions to achieve a maximum range greater than 80&nbsp;km. The project is scheduled to be 60 months long, completing in August 2027.<ref>{{Cite news |last=김 |first=지헌 |date=2022-11-13 |title=K-9 자주포, 80km 너머 포탄 날린다...초장사정 체계 개발 착수 |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20221111149100504 |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |language=ko}}</ref> In November 2022, the Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee approved 440 billion KRW between FY2024 and FY2036 to develop and acquire precision guided munitions for the K9 platform.<ref>{{Cite news|last=하 |first=채림|date=2022-11-28|script-title=ko:국산 소형무장헬기 양산...한국판 스파이크·엑스칼리버 개발(종합)|url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20221128044851504|access-date=2022-12-04|website=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|language=ko}}</ref>

In October at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) 2024, Hanwha Aerospace showcased a small-scaled model of the K9A3, which no longer resembles external appearance of earlier variants. Each K9A3 is remotely controlled by an operator from the K11A1 FDCV, and every K11A1 carries three operators and one commanding officer. To enable this, the K9A3 is equipped with LiDAR (autonomous driving assistance) and a driving camera(s) on the front, driving assistance cameras on the sides, and a remote communication device on the top of the turret.<ref name="K11A1">{{Cite web |last=박 |first=수찬 |date=2024-10-06 |title="K9 자주포, 괴물로 변한다" 1등 넘어 '싹쓸이' 특명 [박수찬의 軍] |url=https://www.segye.com/newsView/20241005510650 |website=[[Segye Ilbo]]}}</ref>

==Variants==

===K10 ARV (ammunition resupply vehicle)===
{{Main|K10 ammunition resupply vehicle}}

The K10 ARV is an automatic resupply vehicle based on K9 platform, sharing most of the components and characteristics. Its concept study started in November 1998 by Samsung Aerospace Industries and [[Pusan National University]]. Its design began in February 2002 by Samsung Techwin (previously Samsung Aerospace Industries), the ADD, and the DTaQ (Defense Agency for Technology and Quality), The army declared its completion in October 2005. The first vehicle rolled out in November 2006, with a price tag of 2.68 billion KRW. It was assigned to the 1st Artillery Brigade of the [[Republic of Korea Army]]. South Korea became the first nation to operate such type of military equipment.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=102&oid=001&aid=0000131318 |title=KDX-III 전투체계 5월 선정 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2001-02-14}}</ref><ref name="K10 ARV">{{cite news |url=https://www.asiae.co.kr/article/2009090418065348850 |title=K9자주포만 따라 다니는 차량 |publisher=[[The Asia Business Daily]] |date=2011-04-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hankyung.com/politics/article/2005100415588 |script-title=ko:로봇형 탄약운반장갑차 K10 개발 |publisher=[[The Korea Economic Daily]] |date=2005-10-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=100&oid=003&aid=0000616022 |script-title=ko:'서울 에어쇼' 국내 항공방위산업 새 지평 열었다 |publisher=[[Newsis]] |date=2007-10-24}}</ref>

The vehicle has a combat weight of 47 metric tons,<ref name="Hanwha Defense K10 ARV">{{cite web |url=https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/kor/products/firearms-system-k10.do |title=Hanwha Defense K10 ARV |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=17 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717233724/https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/kor/products/firearms-system-k10.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> and can support a K9 team by carrying and resupplying 104 shells of 155&nbsp;mm artillery ammunition and 504 units of charges under heavy fire. The vehicle is operated by a 3-person crew, requiring only one loader by applying fully automated control system. It transfers ammunition at a maximum speed of 12 rounds/min. It takes 37 minutes to fully load, and 28 minutes to empty the K10.<ref name="K10 ARV" /> It is often called the ''briquette car'' by military and defense industry officials.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2006-08-29 |script-title=ko:[커버스토리]방위산업 '손 큰 로비'가 주도한다 |url=http://weekly.khan.co.kr/khnm.html?mode=view&dept=113&art_id=12682 |access-date=2022-08-19 |website=[[Weekly Kyunghyang]] |language=ko}}</ref>

===K10 AARV (armored ammunition resupply vehicle)===
The K10 AARV is an enhanced protection variant of the K10 ARV. The first of its kind will be produced in Australia as the '''AS10'''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/eng/media/news-view.do?idx=1463&searchOption=&searchInput=&search=true&page=2 |title=Hanwha Defense shortlisted for Australian SPH project |publisher=Hanwha Defense |date=2020-09-03 |access-date=13 July 2021 |archive-date=13 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713080014/https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/eng/media/news-view.do?idx=1463&searchOption=&searchInput=&search=true&page=2 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===K11 FDCV (fire direction control vehicle)===
The K11 FDCV is designed for the Egyptian military to provide [[command and control]], reconnaissance, and communication for armored vehicles. The vehicle is based on K10, and has a high mobility.<ref>{{cite web|date=2022-02-03|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 이집트와 2조원 규모 K9 수출 계약|url=https://www.ebn.co.kr/news/view/1518292|access-date=2022-02-20|website=EBN|language=ko}}</ref>

===K11A1 FDCV===
First appeared publicly at the KADEX 2024, the K11A1 FDCV is designed to operate up to three K9A3 howitzers remotely. Each K11A1 carries three operators and a commander, and two K11A1s are teamed up to control a total of six K9A3s to form a battery. The vehicle is armed with the K6 HMG-mounted RCWS with the capability to shoot down drones using AI technology, anti-air missile launchers, and additional armor plate for mine protection.<ref name="K11A1"/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Triffaux |title=Hanwha Aerospace Designs Next-Gen K11A1 Fire Direction Control Vehicle for Remote Operation of K9A3 Sel-Propelled Howitzers |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/army-news/army-news-2024/hanwha-aerospace-designs-next-gen-k11a1-fire-direction-control-vehicle-for-remote-operation-of-k9a3-sel-propelled-howitzers |access-date=2024-11-05 |website=www.armyrecognition.com |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-02 |script-title=ko:[단독] 한화, 차세대 자주포 K9A3 모형 최초 공개 |url=https://www.bizhankook.com/bk/article/28338 |access-date=2024-11-26 |website=비즈한국 |language=ko}}</ref>

==Operational history==

===2000s===
In October 2003, the K9 Thunder was evaluated by [[Spain]] at the military base located in [[Zaragoza]].<ref name="Defense Today K9">{{cite web |url=http://www.defensetoday.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=885 |title=K9 자주포 & 해외수출 Q&A |date=7 May 2020 |publisher=Defense Today}}</ref>

In 2004, the K9 was sent to [[Malaysia]] to test its operational capability in a tropical rainforest environment.<ref name="Defense Today K9" />

===2010s===
[[File:2010.11.25 해병대 연평도 k-9사격 (7445570778).jpg|thumb|right|A North Korean artillery attack near-misses a K9 Thunder, igniting fire on charges placed outside of the vehicle in November 2010.]]

{{See also|2010 Yeonpyeong bombardment}}

The K9 Thunder saw its first combat during the [[bombardment of Yeonpyeong]] in November 2010. After receiving a surprise artillery attack from North Korea, the 7th Artillery Battery of the [[Republic of Korea Marine Corps]] were tasked for a counterattack with the K9 howitzers stationed on the island. Prior to the attack, four howitzers had been on a scheduled firing exercise, and two remained in their fortified bunkers. During firing exercise, one vehicle had experienced a shell stuck in the barrel due to a misfire from a faulty charge. After the exercise, crews had opened the hatches of the vehicles and some had dismounted while waiting for the disabled gun to be fixed.<ref name="Battle of Yeonpyeong">{{cite web |url=https://www.haebyeong.com/free/48252 |title=ROKMC memoir |publisher=Republic of Korea Marine Corps |date=2010-12-14}}</ref>

Howitzers on the island always store 20 shells of HE and flares combined, excluding training rounds, for a rapid response.<ref name="20 rounds">{{cite news |url=https://www.korea.kr/news/actuallyView.do?newsId=148702508 |script-title=ko:연평도 K-9 자주포 B/L탄 20발 항상 적재 |publisher=Republic of Korea |date=2010-11-28}}</ref> The marines on the island had been operating the [[AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder radar|AN/TPQ-36]] and [[AN/TPQ-37 Firefinder radar|AN/TPQ-37]] radar, but the number of radar units was not sufficient to cover the long fortified North Korean coastline that the marines were facing.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.asiae.co.kr/news/view.htm?idxno=2010081011485232351 |title=北 해안포 NLL이남지역에 탄착(종합) |publisher=Asian Economics |date=2010-08-10}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.newdaily.co.kr/site/data/html/2010/08/15/2010081500017.html |script-title=ko:"남북, 서해5도서 대결땐 남한이 패한다" |publisher=[[Newdaily]] |date=2010-08-15}}</ref>

The first wave of North Korean bombardment damaged three out of four guns participating in the exercise. Some howitzers received internal damage from shrapnel entering through opened hatches, and one vehicle had an external fire. However, none of the crews suffered casualties, with the exception of a sergeant who had a cut injury from shrapnel.<ref name="Battle of Yeonpyeong" />
* Gun 1: communication system damage and external fire
* Gun 2: severe external damage
* Gun 3: communication system, autoloading system damage, and a crew injury
* Gun 4: barrel disabled from the exercise

After relocating to fortified positions, three howitzers (guns 2, 5, 6) fired back at the North Korean military structures located in Mudo because the marines were unable to track and locate the source of the attack. At the same time, marines worked on restoring communication with guns 1 and 3 by installing wires. Gun 1 went through extensive fire extinguishing while gun 3 joined the firing mission by switching automatic loading to manual loading.<ref name="Battle of Yeonpyeong" /><ref>{{Cite web  |date=2024-02-22 |title=Military Knew of N.Korean Artillery Move Before Attack |url=https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2010/11/26/VTJJGOYXRJFHIXQH72HILRXPUE/ |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=[[The Chosun Ilbo|The Chosun Daily]] |language=ko}}</ref>

Four howitzers were able to employ counter-battery fire during the second wave of the North Korean attack. The radar detected the KPA artillery positions in Kaemori, and two militaries exchanged artillery fire. The KPA attack caused a blackout of the ROK base, but the marines responded with an emergency generator. Additional and different types of ammunition were supplied by hand-carrying at the gun emplacements.<ref name="Battle of Yeonpyeong" /><ref name="20 rounds" />

In May 2011, K9 performed direct shooting for the first time.<ref>{{cite AV media |date=2011-06-10 |script-title=ko:국내 최초로 시도된 K-9자주포 직접조준사격 동영상! |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9JdYVxEReM  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/k9JdYVxEReM |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|publisher=국방TV}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.ajunews.com/common/redirect.jsp?newsId=20110518000491 |script-title=ko:기계화부대 막강화력 총출동...위용 과시 |publisher=[[Aju Business Daily]] |date=2011-05-18}}</ref> K9 can strike bullseye from a distance of 1&nbsp;km with direct fire.<ref name="JoongAng K9A2" /> Per ROK military guidelines, the K9 fires ammunition with the maximum propellants (stage 6) to achieve a muzzle velocity of 1,0XX&nbsp;m/s, which changes based on the temperature of the gun, to maintain a straight line of ballistics for the targets at 400 meters while setting the limit of the maximum effective range at 1,500 meters (without the gunner's optics).<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qd7KzmtYNe8 |title=K9 포구 초속측정...직접조준 사격으로 대대급 화력 보여줘 |date=2022-07-27 |last=KFN뉴스 |access-date=2024-12-06 |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxtidOUh2Ag |title=K9A1이 직접 조준사격(직사)를 하는 이유 대공개 ☆ 본격 밀리터리 Q&A! I 국방홍보원 |date=2024-07-24 |last=KFN |access-date=2024-12-06 |via=YouTube}}</ref>

[[File:A live fire exercise of the ROK Marine Corps K9 battery.webm|thumb|The [[live fire exercise]] of the ROK Marine Corps to prepare for the [[M-1978 Koksan|North Korean long-range artillery]] attack]]

In August 2016, the K9 was tested by the military of the United Arab Emirates. The vehicle managed to drive in the desert at maximum speed for one hour nonstop, without any malfunctions.<ref name="salesperson interview" />

In August 2017, a K9 operated by the 5th Artillery Brigade of the Republic of Korea Army was set ablaze during a firing exercise, causing 3 deaths and 4 wounds among crew members and instructors. After the investigation, it was found that a faulty spring caused the hammer to detonate prematurely, pushing the explosion into the vehicle before the breech was fully closed, and ignited the additional charges which had been taken out from the rack for the next firing. The entire K9 fleet operated by South Korea underwent inspection during the investigation. The Republic of Korea Armed Forces responded by installing black boxes and an AFSS (automatic fire suppression system), reinforcing maintenance, and providing flame-resistance uniforms to crew members.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.news1.kr/articles/?3190314 |title='K-9사고' 6대 후속조치 발표...난연전투복 보급(종합) |publisher=News1 Korea |date=2017-12-26}}</ref>

The production and the delivery of the K9 Thunder ended in June 2018. The factory will continue to produce the model as the K9A1 variant. The first new variant was fielded by the 5th Artillery Brigade of the Republic of Korea Army in August 2018.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-03-18|script-title=ko:한화디펜스 실적 이끈 K9 자주포...하반기 수출 총력전|url=https://biz.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2019/08/13/2019081302041.html|access-date=2021-08-31|website=[[ChosunBiz]]|language=ko}}</ref>

===2020s===
On 13 November 2020, the DAPA announced that the entire K9 program delivered to the Republic of Korea Armed Forces is now at full operational capability, bringing the K9 Thunder program for the South Korean military to completion.<ref>{{cite web|date=2020-11-13|script-title=ko:군, K9 자주포 실전 배치 20년만에 마무리...전력화 종결|url=http://www.mbn.co.kr/news/society/4339774|access-date=2021-08-31|website=[[Maeil Broadcasting Network]]|language=ko}}</ref>

In February 2021, the K9 Vajra-T was deployed to the Ladakh region during territorial tensions between China and India.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_may_2021_global_security_army_industry/india_has_deployed_k9_vajra_155mm_self-propelled_howitzers_in_ladakh_region.html |title=India has deployed K9 Vajra 155mm self-propelled howitzers in Ladakh region |date=29 May 2021 |publisher=Armyrecognition.com |access-date=2022-03-16}}</ref>

In December 2024, the Norwegian military experienced a shortage of the K9 VIDAR spare parts due to the discrepancy between expected versus actual consumption of parts. To prioritize maintaining the howitzers in operational status, the military responded by temporarily removing the K10s, which share many components with the howitzer, from active service for cannibalization. The K10s will return to active service once the military receives the next shipment from South Korea in February 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pettersen |first=Stephan |last2=Sørbø |first2=Krister |date=2024-12-03 |title=Norges nye artillerisystem er delvis ute av drift |url=https://www.forsvaretsforum.no/artilleri-artilleribataljonen-beredskap/norges-nye-artillerisystem-er-delvis-ute-av-drift/408549 |access-date=2024-12-17 |website=www.forsvaretsforum.no |language=nb-NO}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-17 |title=Hanwha Aerospace delivers additional K9 howitzers and K10 resupply vehicles to Norway |url=https://defence-industry.eu/hanwha-aerospace-delivers-additional-k9-howitzers-and-k10-resupply-vehicles-to-norway/ |access-date=2024-12-17 |language=en}}</ref>

On 28 January 2025, the [[Syrian Democratic Forces]] released a video of FPV drone attacks on two Turkish T-155s located in Manbij. The first attack set a howitzer on fire, but the video itself proves that the fire was put out, and the gun appears to be fine during the second drone attack, which the video does not show results.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Jan 28, 2025 |title=SDF Press: 2 T-155 Fırtına artillery destroyed by SDF kamikaze drones, southwest of Manbij, in response of Turkish terrorist attacks targeting civilians |url=https://x.com/RojavaNetwork/status/1884316260844069325 |website=X |publisher=Rojava Network}}</ref>

==Exports==

===Turkey===
{{Main|T-155 Fırtına}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = T-155 Fırtına
| image              = File:T-155Fırtına (1).jpg
| image_size         = 300px
| caption            = Turkish variant T-155 Fırtına
| type               = 
| origin             = South Korea <br /> Turkey
<!-- Type selection -->
| is_ranged          = yes
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = yes
| service            = Fırtına I: 2005–present <br />Fırtına II: 2021–present
| wars               = {{Tree list}}
* [[Kurdish–Turkish conflict]]
** [[2008 Turkish incursion into northern Iraq|Operation Sun]]
* [[Syrian civil war]]
** [[Syrian–Turkish border clashes during the Syrian civil war|Syrian–Turkish clashes]]
** [[Operation Euphrates Shield]]
** [[Operation Olive Branch]]
** [[2019 Turkish offensive into north-eastern Syria|Operation Peace Spring]]
* [[Libyan civil war (2014–2020)|Second Libyan Civil War]]
** [[Western Libya campaign|Operation Peace Storm]]
{{Tree list/end}}
| used_by            = 
| designer           = Samsung Techwin<br/>Turkish Land Forces
| design_date        = 2000–2004
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*[[Turkish Land Forces]] (2004–2015)
*[[Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation]] (2015–present)
*[[BMC Otomotiv|BMC Defence]] (2019–present)
}}
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = Fırtına I: 2004–2014 <br />Fırtına II: 2018–present
| number             = 
| variants           = 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 39&nbsp;km (MOD 274, BB/HE)
| length             = 
| width              = 
| height             = 
| clearance          = 
| weight             = 
| suspension         = 
| speed              = 
| fuel_capacity      = 
| vehicle_range      = 
| primary_armament   = MKE/[[Hyundai WIA]] [[155 mm]] 52 caliber, 48 rounds
| secondary_armament = 
| armour             = 
| engine             = 
| transmission       = HST Otomotiv/Allison Transmission X1100-5A4<br />4 forward, 2 reverse (after 2024)
| crew               = 
| engine_power       = 
| pw_ratio           = 
}}

In May 1999, the Ministry of National Defense of South Korea ordered its [[military attaché]] in Turkey to arrange a presentation for K9 Thunder. On 29 April, Samsung dispatched its sales team, and had a meeting with high-ranking Turkish officials including assistant secretary of defense and director of technology. Despite showing interest in K9 Thunder, there was no business deals made as Turkey was planning to produce German [[Panzerhaubitze 2000]] at that time. Another meeting was held on 4 October between Atilla Ateş, commander of the Turkish Land Forces, and military attaché Colonel Go regarding K9 production in Turkey and solution for import restriction on MTU Friedrichshafen engines by German government. As Turkey's plan to build PzH2000 eventually became halted by Germany, South Korea and Turkey signed MOU to strengthen military and defense cooperation on 18 November.<ref name="Turkey Sales">{{cite news |url=https://www.haebyeong.com/mnddata/12348 |script-title=ko:[첨단무기 개발비화]세계 최강의 K-9 자주포(VIII) 신인호 국방일보 |publisher=Republic of Korea Marine Corps |date=2010-06-28 |language=Korean |newspaper=해병닷컴 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.nhn?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=100&oid=001&aid=0004563716 |script-title=ko:한.터키 국방장관 방산협력 협의 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=1999-11-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web  |title=[K9 32회] K9자주포, 터키와 첫 수출 성사 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220617/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-07-18 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404151115/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220617/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

On 12 December, Turkey sent a team of military general and engineers to Korea to inspect K9 Thunder. Satisfied with the performance, Turkey cancelled its plan to find replacement from Israel, and decided to manufacture K9 Thunder. On 19 February 2000, a technology evaluation team consisting members of the Agency of Defense Development and Samsung was sent to Turkey, and inspected various Turkish companies and facilities including Turkish 1010th Army Factory, [[MKEK]], and [[Aselsan]] to optimize manufacturing process of K9 in Turkey. On 4 May 2000, the [[Ministry of National Defense (South Korea)|Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Korea]] and Turkish Land Forces Command signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to supply 350 K9 systems till 2011.<ref name="ROK Defense Media Agency" /><ref name="Turkey Sales" /><ref name="DongA">{{cite web |date=2001-07-20 |script-title=ko:국산 K9자주포 첫 수출...터키에 1조3000억 규모 |language=ko |url=http://www.donga.com/news/article/all/20010720/7717206/1 |publisher=[[The Dong-A Ilbo]]}}</ref><ref name="K9 Episode 33">{{Cite web  |title=[K9 33회] 터키型 자주포 공동 개발 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220620/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-07-18 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404154156/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220620/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

On the same day the MOU was signed, Germany informed South Korea that Germany would not allow sales of license produced MTU engines to Turkey due to its political reasons, thus possibly cancelling the project. To solve the issue, Korea prepared for British Perkins Engines, which had already been examined for K9 during the early designing phase, and negotiated with Germany in the meantime. On 29 May 2000 during ministerial talks, South Korea asked Germany to permit sales of MTU engines, or it may experience hardship in purchasing German equipment for its future needs.<ref name="Turkey Sales" /><ref name="K9 Episode 33"/>

On 20 June, Turkey transferred $3.35 million to build a prototype, and engineers were sent to Samsung Techwin for technical training. Between July and August, parts for the prototype were built and sent to Turkey, and the engineers returned and assembled the vehicle with assistance from Korean counterparts.<ref name="K9 Episode 33"/> On 15 December, Germany approved Korea in exporting maximum of 400 engines to Turkey after reaching an agreement with license producing German [[Type 214 submarine]] as a winner of the KSS-II program for the [[Republic of Korea Navy]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.v.daum.net/v/20011124054559380?f=o |script-title=ko:한국산 자주포 터키 수출 독일서 논란 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2001-11-24}}</ref> The prototype was finally equipped with engine, ending the assembly on 30 December 2000, and earned the nickname ''Fırtına'' (Storm).<ref name="Turkey Sales" /><ref name="K9 Episode 44">{{Cite web  |title=[K9 34회·끝] 터키형 자주포 화력시범 대성공 |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220706/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |access-date=2022-07-18 |website=[[Kookbang Ilbo]] |archive-date=8 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208032328/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220706/1/BBSMSTR_000000100185/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Winter test was held in January and February 2001 at [[Sarıkamış]], and Fırtına was able to operate in snowy mountain terrain without issue. It also went thru firing test in 10 to 23 of March at [[Karapinar]], and summer test at [[Diyarbakır]] between April and May. On 12 May, Fırtına took a major part of firepower demonstration, showing its capabilities live on-air as it was needed for military to earn support from people and politicians to manufacture Fırtına amid [[2001 Turkish economic crisis|economic crisis]].<ref name="Turkey Sales" /><ref name="K9 Episode 44"/>

A formal contract was signed by Samsung Techwin (formerly Samsung Aerospace Industries) and the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Seoul on 20 July 2001. South Korean government will transfer the technologies belong to the Agency for Defense Development that are used for Turkish variant<ref name="ADD">{{cite web|url=https://www.add.re.kr/board?menuId=MENU02982&siteId=null|title=Defense Export|publisher=[[Agency for Defense Development]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220530033958/https://www.add.re.kr/board?menuId=MENU02982&siteId=null|archive-date=30 May 2022|access-date=30 May 2022|author=}}</ref> for free in exchange for Turkey to purchase 350 vehicles—280 for [[Turkish Land Forces]] and 70 for its future customer—by 2011, which the total is expected to be $1 billion. The first 24 T-155 consists $65 million worth of Korean subsystems.<ref name="Turkey Sales" /><ref name="DongA" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/k9.htm|title=K9 155mm self-propelled howitzer|first=John|last=Pike|access-date=2007-03-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070320052724/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/k9.htm|archive-date=2007-03-20|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=2014-12-16 |script-title=ko:삼성테크윈, 폴란드에 'K-9 자주포' 수출...2017년부터 직접 공급 |url=http://www.newsway.co.kr/news/view?tp=1&ud=2014121622273349811 |language=ko |publisher=News Way}}</ref><ref name="K9 Episode 44"/> The Turkish model was named [[T-155 Fırtına]].

Hanwha Defense has generated more than $600 million from Turkey since then,<ref name="salesperson interview" /> much lower than expected, as Turkey produced fewer units than planned as well as its effort to increase localization gradually by indigenous research and from technology transfer. A total of 281 vehicles were produced by the 1st Main Maintenance Factory Directorate of the Turkish Land Forces between 2004 and 2014, and deliveries were completed in 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MoND FY 2021 Budget Approved by the General Assembly of TGNA |url=https://www.defenceturkey.com/en/content/mond-fy-2021-budget-approved-by-the-general-assembly-of-tgna-4388 |access-date=2023-11-30 |website=www.defenceturkey.com}}</ref>

In 2024, Allison Transmission delivered ten X1100-5A4 transmissions to Turkey as a part of Fırtına II program for the integration. On 10 February 2025, Allison Transmission announced that HST Otomotiv will produce 32 additional transmissions under license and deliver starting in Q1 of 2026. The transmission can support heavy vehicles up to 57 metric tons (63 tons).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-02-10 |title=Allison Awarded New Contract to Provide Propulsion Solution for Turkish Armed Forces Next Generation Vehicle |url=https://ir.allisontransmission.com/news-releases/news-release-details/allison-awarded-new-contract-provide-propulsion-solution-turkish |website=Allison Transmission |publisher=Allison Transmission}}</ref>

===Poland===

====PK9====
{{Main|AHS Krab}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = PK9
| image              = File:AHS Krab in Kyiv 01.jpg
| image_size         = 300px
| caption            = AHS Krab with PK9 chassis at the [[Arms and Security]] 2017 exhibition
| type               = 
| origin             = South Korea <br /> Poland
<!-- Type selection -->
| is_ranged          = yes
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = yes
| service            = 2016–present
| wars               = [[Russo-Ukrainian War]]
| used_by            = 
| designer           = {{Tree list}}
* Samsung Techwin
** Hanwha Techwin
*Huta Stalowa Wola
{{Tree list/end}}
| design_date        = 2014–2016
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*Samsung Techwin (2014–2015)
*[[Hanwha Techwin]] (2015–2016)
*[[Huta Stalowa Wola]] (2017–present)
}}
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    =
| number             = 
| variants           = 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 
| length             = 
| width              = 
| height             = 
| clearance          = 
| weight             = 
| suspension         = 
| speed              = {{cvt|60|km/h|mph}} on road<br />{{cvt|30|km/h|mph}} off-road
| fuel_capacity      = 
| vehicle_range      = 
| primary_armament   = 
| secondary_armament = 
| armour             = 
| engine             = 
| transmission       =
| crew               = 
| engine_power       = 
| pw_ratio           = 
}}
In 1999, the same year Poland joined  [[NATO]], it launched a military program named Regina Project to replace its 152mm Soviet-era SPGs with the NATO standard 155&nbsp;mm artillery system. The British [[BAE Systems]] was chosen by Poland for technical cooperation to build a new design. Later, the plan was changed to use modified [[AS-90]] turret and combine with UPG-NG chassis from domestic company [[Bumar-Łabędy]] to shorten the development schedule.<ref name="K9 Poland">{{cite news |url=https://nownews.seoul.co.kr/news/newsView.php?id=20141229601024 |script-title=ko:방산(防産)강국 폴란드가 K9 수입한 사연 |publisher=Now News |date=2015-01-19}}</ref>

However, the UPG-NG chassis experienced series of issues during trial. The chassis was unable to support its 20 t turret by failing the shock absorption from 155&nbsp;mm 52 caliber weapon system, often breaking and cracking the parts. In addition, the factory that has been producing S-12U engine for the vehicle was closed down, causing major discrepancy in logistics even before the mass production stage. In 2008, after four years since the prototype was revealed, Polish Ministry of Defense warned Bumar to fix the issue by 2014, otherwise it will look for foreign partner instead. Bumar failed to meet the ROC (required operational capability), thus K9 Thunder platform was chosen for the weapon project.<ref name="K9 Poland" />

In December 2014, Samsung Techwin signed a cooperation agreement with [[Huta Stalowa Wola]] to supply modified K9 Thunder chassis for [[AHS Krab]] self-propelled howitzer. The changes to the chassis (referred to as PK9)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Defence24 |date=2017-12-13 |title=Dwa kroki do artyleryjskiej samodzielności |url=https://defence24.pl/przemysl/dwa-kroki-do-artyleryjskiej-samodzielnosci |access-date=2024-12-13 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref> include a fire suppression system in the crew compartment, air filtration system, air conditioning and the APU.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-03-21 |title=Series Manufactured Krab Howitzers for the Polish Military |url=https://defence24.com/armed-forces/land/series-manufactured-krab-howitzers-for-the-polish-military |access-date=2023-12-22 |website=defence24.com |language=pl}}</ref> The deal is worth $310 million for 120 chassis, which includes related technology transfer and the power pack. From 2015 to 2022, 24 units will be manufactured in South Korea, and 96 will be license produced in Poland.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hankyung.com/politics/article/201412185981i |title=K9 문당 28억원에 폴란드 수출 |publisher=[[The Korea Economic Daily]] |date=2014-12-18}}</ref> First chassis rolled out on 26 June 2015, and all 24 vehicles produced in Korea left for Poland as of October 2016.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.heraldcorp.com/military/view.php?ud=20150626000130 |title=K-9 자주포, 폴란드 수출 차체 1호기 출하 |publisher=[[Herald Corporation]] |date=2015-06-26}}</ref> HSW will begin producing PK9 chassis starting in 2017.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20161215168000003?input=1195m |script-title=ko:한화테크윈, 폴란드에 K9 자주포 96대 수출(종합) |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2016-12-15}}</ref>

Late in May 2022, the Polish government donated 18 AHS Krab howitzers to [[Ukraine]] to assist the [[Ukrainian military]] to defend against Russia during the [[2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine|invasion of Ukraine]].<ref name="CharlishHunder2022">{{cite news |last1=Charlish |first1=Alan |last2=Hunder |first2=Max |title=Poland gives 18 howitzers to Ukraine - public radio |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/ukraine-crisis-arms-poland-idUSL1N2XL0AF |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=[[Reuters]] |date=May 29, 2022}}</ref> On 29 May, Polish minister of defense visited South Korea for high level talks regarding the purchase of various Korean weapons including additional K9 chassis to increase AHS Krab production.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-05-30 |script-title=ko:한국·폴란드 국방장관 회담... 국산 무기 수출길 열릴까 |url=https://segye.com/view/20220530522949 |access-date=2022-06-10 |website=[[Segye Ilbo]] |language=ko |last1=Com |first1=Segye }}</ref> On June 7, Poland and Ukraine signed a contract for the purchase of an additional 54 units plus support vehicles, in a deal worth US$700 million. The agreement was the largest defense contract that Polish defense industry had made.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Poland Sells Its Krab Howitzers to Ukraine: A Record-Breaking Contract |url=https://defence24.com/industry/poland-sells-its-krab-howitzers-to-ukraine-a-record-breaking-contract |access-date=2022-06-10 |website=defence24.com |date=7 June 2022 |language=pl}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Poland to sell 60 AHS Krab self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine |url=https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-ato/3497984-poland-to-sell-60-krab-selfpropelled-howitzers-to-ukraine.html |website=[[Ukrinform]] |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=June 2, 2022}}</ref>

On 23 December 2024, the contract worth PLN 9 billion for 96 Krabs, command vehicles, command and staff vehicles, ammunition vehicles, and repair workshops was signed. The delivery schedule for this batch is scheduled by the end of 2029.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-23 |title=Kolejne uzbrojenie dla #WojskoPolskie. |url=https://x.com/MON_GOV_PL/status/1871214300351676464 |website=x.com/ |publisher=Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej}}</ref>

On 8 April 2025, HSW signed a ₩402.6 billion deal with Hanwha Aerospace to supply parts including power packs for 87 AHS Krabs between 2026 and 2028.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-08 |title=한화에어로스페이스, 폴란드에 4000억원대 자주포 부품 공급 |url=https://www.hanwhaaerospace.com/kor/media/newsroom/view.do?seq=497 |website=Hanwha Aerospace}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Walkowski |first=Antoni |date=2025-04-07 |title=Koreańskie silniki do Kraba. Porozumienie Hanwha i HSW |url=https://defence24.pl/przemysl/koreanskie-silniki-do-kraba-porozumienie-hanwha-i-hsw |access-date=2025-06-09 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref>

====K9PL====
[[File:A Polish K9 howitzer maneuvers on the firing range for a live fire demonstration.jpg|thumb|right|Polish K9 Thunder maneuvers on the firing range for a live fire demonstration in Bemowo Piskie, Poland on March 31, 2023]]
On 27 July 2022, [[Polish Armaments Group]] (PGZ) and Hanwha Defense signed a [[framework agreement]] to supply 672 '''K9PL'''. Hanwha Defense hoped to expand the deal plus adding '''K10 ARV''' and '''K11 FDCV''' support vehicles.<ref name="PGZ">{{cite news|url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20220727090752504|script-title=ko:폴란드 "한국에 K2 1천대·FA-50 3개편대·K-9 600문 주문"(종합2보)|publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|date=27 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729001831/https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20220727090752504|archive-date=29 July 2022|access-date=29 July 2022|author=Kim Yeonsuk|newspaper=[[Yonhap News Agency]] }}</ref><ref name="Defence24">{{cite web|url=https://cdn.defence24.pl/2022/07/29/b8a347b7-2dc4-4ddb-82dc-b49174860aa2.pdf|title=Poland Procures Korean MBTs, Aircraft, and Howitzers|publisher=Defence24|date=28 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729165048/https://cdn.defence24.pl/2022/07/29/b8a347b7-2dc4-4ddb-82dc-b49174860aa2.pdf|archive-date=29 July 2022|access-date=29 July 2022|author=Maciej Szopa}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=구 |first=자윤 |date=2022-07-28 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 폴란드에 K9·K10·K11 수출 기본 계약 |url=https://www.fnnews.com/news/202207280916238083 |access-date=2022-07-30 |website=[[The Financial News]] |language=ko-KR}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wojsko-polskie.pl/au/articles/aktualnosci/czolgi-haubice-i-samoloty-z-korei-dla-sil-zbrojnych-rp/|title=Czołgi, haubice i samoloty z Korei dla Sił Zbrojnych RP|date=27 July 2022|access-date=31 July 2022}}</ref> Poland will also produce AHS Krab in parallel; however, due to the low production capability, the deliveries of the existing order will be completed by 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-26 |title=Polska kupi 1000 czołgów. Błaszczak: planujemy pozyskanie dodatkowych F-35 lub F-15 [WYWIAD] |url=https://defence24.pl/polityka-obronna/polska-kupi-1000-czolgow-blaszczak-planujemy-pozyskanie-dodatkowych-f-35-lub-f-15-wywiad |access-date=2022-07-26 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref> On 26 August 2022, an executive contract of $2.4 billion was signed to acquire 212 K9PL manufactured by Hanwha Defense as a Batch I order. Poland took loans equivalent to 70% of the total purchase cost (which includes Polish orders for the [[K2 Black Panther]], K9 Thunder, as well as the [[FA-50]]), from the South Korean banks.<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2023-06-05 |script-title=ko:[단독] "12조 금융 지원 또 달라"...2차 협상 난항 |url=https://news.sbs.co.kr/news/endPage.do?news_id=N1007218207 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[Seoul Broadcasting System]] |language=ko}}</ref> The deal does not include accompanying vehicles; however, it consists of crew training, including simulators, logistics packages, and a large amount of ammunition. To fill up Polish inventory quickly, the first 48 howitzers (upgraded K9 to A1) will come from the Republic of Korea Army inventory, and the ROKA will be compensated with newly produced vehicles later.<ref>{{Cite web |last=홍 |first=의표 |date=2022-09-26 |script-title=ko:[단독] 우리 군이 쓸 전차·자주포도 폴란드로‥'전력 공백' 우려 |url=https://imnews.imbc.com/replay/2022/nwdesk/article/6411448_35744.html |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[MBC News]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-26 |script-title=ko:육군 갈 K2전차·K9자주포 '폴란드 먼저'... "안보 공백 우려" |url=https://www.news1.kr/articles/4814296 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[News1 (South Korean company)|News1]] |language=ko}}</ref> These secondhand vehicles are sometimes referred to as K9GF (Gap Filler).<ref name="K9GF">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXCdpCK8Gxo |title=[K-방산] K9자주포, K2전차 동시 폴란드 수출 선적 현장 포착..전차 180대 자주포 1차 212문, 2차 152문도 이렇게 납품 됩니다 |date=2024-10-31 |last=MBC경남 NEWS |access-date=2024-11-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> All K9PL, including K9GF, will be equipped with the Polish C2 network system and Topaz Automated Fire Control System, which is intended for operating with Polish command vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=tf.co.kr |date=2022-12-06 |title=K2 '흑표' 전차 ·K9 '썬더' 자주포 두 달 만에 폴란드 도착 |url=http://news.tf.co.kr/read/ptoday/1984344.htm |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=더팩트 |language=ko}}</ref> Under the contract, Hanwha is responsible for delivery of all 212 vehicles by 30 September 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-09 |script-title=ko:승승장구 K방산, 폴란드發 변수에 제동걸리나 |url=https://biz.newdaily.co.kr/site/data/html/2022/12/09/2022120900105.html |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=[[Newdaily]] |language=ko}}</ref> Poland plans to build K9PL locally afterward via technology transfer for the Batch II.<ref name="K9A1 Poland">{{Cite web |title=Czołgi, haubice i amunicja za miliardy już w tym roku. Umowy wykonawcze z Koreą podpisane |url=https://defence24.pl/przemysl/czolgi-haubice-i-amunicja-za-miliardy-juz-w-tym-roku-umowy-wykonawcze-z-korea-podpisane |access-date=2022-08-27 |website=defence24.pl |date=26 August 2022 |language=pl}}</ref> On 7 September, Hanwha Defense and WB Electronics signed a $139.5 million deal for installation of Polish communication systems on the Batch I order.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-08 |script-title=ko:[단독] 한화디펜스, 폴란드 방산업체와 '1920억원 규모' 통신 시스템 공급계약 체결 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=41817 |access-date=2022-09-12 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

The first 24 K9PL(GF) was rolled out on 19 October 2022.<ref>{{Citation |title=K9PL Roll-Out Ceremony | date=24 October 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkg5IodHEo4 |language=en |access-date=2022-12-02}}</ref> The delivery ceremony was held in Poland on 6 December.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-06 |script-title=ko:폴란드 "한국 기술로 국방력 강화"... K9자주포·K2전차 초도분 도착 |url=https://www.news1.kr/articles/4886796 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=[[News1 (South Korean company)|News1]] |language=ko}}</ref> The first new K9PL began its construction in July 2023.<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2023-07-14 |script-title=ko:한화 김동관 폴란드行...한국선 K9 자주포 조립 개시 |url=https://news.mt.co.kr/mtview.php?no=2023071413022870403 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[Money Today]] |language=ko}}</ref>

On 1 December 2023, Poland and Hanwha Aerospace signed a $2.6 billion agreement for 6 Batch I K9PLs by 2025, 146 Batch II K9PLs between 2026 and 2027, and integrated logistics support for the howitzers and 155&nbsp;mm ammunitions.<ref name="K9GF"/> This agreement did not involve loan like previous, and the deal includes technology transfers that allow Poland to manufacture 155&nbsp;mm ammunitions and K9 parts locally.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-27 |title=Tusk o kontraktach zbrojeniowych: przegląd z intencją kontynuacji |url=https://defence24.pl/polityka-obronna/tusk-o-kontraktach-zbrojeniowych-przeglad-z-intencja-kontynuacji |access-date=2023-12-31 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-04 |title=K9 자주포 152문 폴란드 2차 수출 성공...한화 "3.4조 계약" |url=https://www.donga.com/news/Politics/article/all/20231204/122470501/1 |access-date=2023-12-05 |website=[[The Dong-A Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-01 |title=Poland buys more K9 howitzers from South Korea in $2.6 billion deal |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/poland-buys-more-k9-howitzers-south-korea-26-billion-deal-2023-12-01/ |access-date=2023-12-05}}</ref> On the same day, a framework agreement for auxiliary vehicles for Krab and K9 howitzers was signed between the Polish MoD and PGZ, which means that Polish K9PL will be accompanied by domestic vehicles instead of the K10 or the K11.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-01 |title=Umowa na wozy towarzyszące dla polskich haubic |url=https://milmag.pl/umowa-na-wozy-towarzyszace-dla-polskich-haubic/ |access-date=2023-12-22 |website=MILMAG |language=pl-PL}}</ref>

The K9PL Batch II was initially described as "using solutions from the K9A2"; however, the final configuration from the December executive contract was the K9A1 with modifications.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-19 |title=Polskie haubice K9A1 zaprezentowane [FOTO] |url=https://defence24.pl/sily-zbrojne/polskie-haubice-k9a1-zaprezentowane-foto |access-date=2023-12-22 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Walkowski |first=Antoni |date=2024-12-23 |title=Kraby i nie tylko. Rekordowe kontrakty Stalowej Woli |url=https://defence24.pl/sily-zbrojne/kraby-i-nie-tylko-rekordowe-kontrakty-stalowej-woli#goog_rewarded |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref> The Batch II has 13 additional subsystems compared to the first, such as the Obra-3 laser warning system, automatic fire suppression system in the crew compartment, air filtration system, air conditioning, smoke grenade launcher, and the APU in the chassis instead of in the turret.<ref name="K9GF"/><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |url=https://www.wojsko-polskie.pl/au/articles/aktualnosci/dodatkowe-haubice-samobiezne-dla-wojska-polskiego/ |title=Dodatkowe haubice samobieżne dla Wojska Polskiego|access-date=2023-12-22 |website=www.wojsko-polskie.pl |language=pl}}</ref>

On 16 March 2024, Korean banks authorized a maximum of $8.5 billion loan for Poland to purchase additional South Korean arms.<ref>{{Cite web |last=최 |first=은솔 |date=2024-03-17 |script-title=ko:폴란드 매체 국내 시중은행, 폴란드 무기수출에 10조원 대출 |url=https://www.ajunews.com/view/20240317153815788 |access-date=2024-08-27 |website=[[Aju Business Daily]] |language=ko}}</ref>

On 4 April 2024, Hanwha Aerospace opened a European office in Warsaw and announced the integration of the K9 and Krab howitzer systems with cooperation from HSW to improve the operational and maintenance efficiency of the Polish military. The two systems are simple to integrate since both use the same chassis. Hanwha Aerospace also plans to establish a MCS propellant production plant in Poland to support the entire 155&nbsp;mm artillery system.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-07 |script-title=ko:한화에어로스페이스, 폴란드와 K9 및 크라브 곡사포시스템 통합 협력 강화 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/ko-kr/news/article/news_all/20240407102246428e8b8a793f7_1/article.html |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |language=ko}}</ref> On 10 May 2024, two companies signed the letter of intent for the integration, which also includes adopting licensed PK9 chassis for the K9A2 and K9A3 and transferring technology for repairing the CN98 main gun.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HSW, Hanwha Aerospace to Integrate Polish Krab Chassis with Korean K9 Gun-Howitzers |url=https://www.defensemirror.com/news/36767/HSW__Hanwha_Aerospace_to_Integrate_Polish_Krab_Chassis_with_Korean_K9_Gun_Howitzers |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=www.defensemirror.com}}</ref>

On 23 December 2024, PGZ, HSW, and Rosomak SA were awarded PLN 8 billion for delivering more than 250 accompanying vehicles, including training and logistics package, for the K9 howitzers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-23 |title=Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa S.A. (lider), Huta Stalowa Wola S.A., Rosomak S.A., dostarczy #WojskoPolskie kilkaset wozów towarzyszących do haubic samobieżnych K9. |url=https://x.com/MON_GOV_PL/status/1871214773058121839 |website=x.com/ |publisher=Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej}}</ref>

===Finland===
On 1 June 2016 at KDEC (Korea Defense Equipment & Component) industry fair, two nations signed a MOU for defense cooperation including export of used K9.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hankookilbo.com/News/Read/201606020465675254 |title=K-9 자주포 40여문 핀란드 수출 임박 |publisher=[[Hankook Ilbo]] |date=2016-06-02}}</ref> In July 2016, the Finnish Ministry of Defence announced that an undisclosed number of used K9s have been selected to be acquired from the Republic of Korea.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defmin.fi/ajankohtaista/tiedotteet/maavoimien_tykistokaluston_uusiminen_etenee.7898.news|title=Maavoimien tykistökaluston uusiminen etenee|access-date=2016-07-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705051603/http://www.defmin.fi/ajankohtaista/tiedotteet/maavoimien_tykistokaluston_uusiminen_etenee.7898.news|archive-date=2016-07-05|url-status=live}}</ref> The acquisition is claimed to be biggest of the decade for the Land Forces, whose both mobile and towed artillery face mass outdating in the 2020s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reservilainen.fi/uutiset/maavoimien_etsikkoaikaa_eletaan_parhaillaan|title=Maavoimien etsikkoaikaa eletään parhaillaan|date=26 February 2016|access-date=1 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160608153559/http://www.reservilainen.fi/uutiset/maavoimien_etsikkoaikaa_eletaan_parhaillaan|archive-date=8 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 2016, K9 was field tested in Finland, and Seppo Toivonen, the commander of the Finnish Army, visited South Korea to inspect operating units during 2016 DX Korea.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.khan.co.kr/politics/defense-diplomacy/article/201609182238005 |script-title=ko:핀란드 육군사령관, K-9 자주포 부대 다녀가 |publisher=[[Kyunghyang Shinmun]] |date=2016-09-18}}</ref> On 25 November 2016, two countries signed MOU to supply 48 used K9 for $200 million and match equal amount of free technology transfer related to vehicle maintenance.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.intn.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=731956 |title=K-9 자주포, 핀란드 수출 양해각서 체결 |publisher=Daily NTN |date=2016-11-23}}</ref>

On 17 February 2017, the Ministry of Defense announced that Finland will acquire 48 used K9s over a period of seven years starting in 2018, with conscript training on the equipment commencing in 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://yle.fi/uutiset/3-9466486|title=Suomi ostaa 48 käytettyä panssarihaupitsia Etelä-Koreasta|website=Yle Uutiset|date=17 February 2017|access-date=2017-02-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217152142/http://yle.fi/uutiset/3-9466486|archive-date=2017-02-17|url-status=live}}</ref> On 2 March 2017, final contract of value of €145 million ($160 million) was signed by two governments in Seoul, South Korea.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.korea.kr/news/pressReleaseView.do?newsId=156186646 |title=K-9 자주포 핀란드 수출계약 체결, 48문 1.45억 유로 규모 |publisher=Republic of Korea |date=2017-03-02}}</ref>

On 21 October 2021, Finnish Ministry of Defense authorized exercising option to purchase 10 new vehicles including spare parts and supplies—5 in 2021 and another 5 in 2022—for €30 million, increasing the fleet size to 58 vehicles.<ref>{{cite web|title=Finnish Army to use option for 5 additional K9 155 mm self-propelled howitzers {{!}} Defense News October 2021 Global Security army industry {{!}} Defense Security global news industry army year 2021 {{!}} Archive News year|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_october_2021_global_security_army_industry/finnish_army_to_use_option_for_5_additional_k9_155_mm_self-propelled_howitzers.html|access-date=2021-10-28|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=22 October 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Finland exercises option for five more K9 SPHs|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/finland-exercises-option-for-five-more-k9-sphs|access-date=2021-10-28|website=Janes.com|date=25 October 2021 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Lisää K9-panssarihaupitseja Maavoimille – Ruotuväki|url=https://ruotuvaki.fi/-/lisaa-k9-panssarihaupitseja-maavoimille|access-date=2021-10-29|website=ruotuvaki.fi|date=26 October 2021|language=fi-FI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=박 |first=원석 |date=2024-09-09 |script-title=ko:서울대 '2024 한-핀란드 이노베이션 포럼: 떠오르는 민/군 겸용 기술' 개최 |url=https://www.veritas-a.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=519420 |access-date=2024-09-19 |website=[[Veritas Alpha]] |language=ko}}</ref>

On 18 November 2022 Finnish Minister of Defence [[Antti Kaikkonen]] authorized purchase of another 38 used vehicles for €134 million.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.hs.fi/kotimaa/art-2000009211493.html/ |newspaper=hs.fi|access-date=2022-11-18|date=2022-11-18|title=Suomi jatkaa aseostoja Venäjän hyökkäyssodan varjossa: Nyt ostoslistalla on liki 40 "Moukaria"}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-07 |script-title=ko:[더구루] 핀란드, K9 중고 자주포 개량 추진…밀로그 낙점 |url=https://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=67648 |access-date=2024-09-19 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web  |date=2025-05-11 |script-title=ko:다올證 "핀란드, K9 자주포 추가 구매… 주변국 구매 욕구 자극 기대" |url=https://biz.chosun.com/stock/stock_general/2025/05/12/JNJJAGHOZZCBPEIU4JJSEEEEBQ/ |access-date=2025-05-29 |website=[[ChosunBiz]] |language=ko}}</ref>

The official Finnish designation of the howitzer is '''155 PSH K9 FIN''', colloquially called Moukari (meaning Sledgehammer). Vehicles receive domestic modification via Millog.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://puolustusvoimat.fi/en/equipment#/asset/view/id/234 | title=Materiel and Equipment of the Finnish Defence Forces }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-23 |title=K9 howitzer delivery to Finland continues |url=https://en.defenceturk.net/k9-howitzer-delivery-to-finland-continues/ |access-date=2023-12-20 |website=English Defence News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-11 |title=Millog – a pioneer in national security of supply |url=https://defence-industry.eu/millog-a-pioneer-in-national-security-of-supply/ |access-date=2023-12-20 |language=en}}</ref>

On 4 March 2024, Millog signed a contract with the Finish Defense Force to upgrade 48 vehicles purchased in 2021 and 2022 at €8.1 million. The work is expected to be completed by 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-04 |title=Millog sai lisätilauksen Puolustusvoimilta K9-panssarihaupitsien käyttökuntoon saattamisesta |url=https://millog.fi/millog-sai-lisatilauksen-puolustusvoimilta-k9-panssarihaupitsien-kayttokuntoon-saattamisesta/ |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=Millog |language=fi}}</ref>

===India===
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = K9 Vajra-T
| image              = File:K-9 VAJRA-T passes through the Rajpath, at the 71st Republic Day Celebrations, at Rajpath, in New Delhi on January 26, 2020.jpg
| image_size         = 300px
| caption            = K9 Vajra-T passes through the [[Rajpath]], at the 71st [[Republic Day Parade]], at Rajpath, in [[New Delhi]] on January 26, 2020
| type               = 
| origin             = South Korea <br /> India
<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged          = yes
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = yes
| service            = 2018–present
| wars               = 
| used_by            = 
| designer           = {{Tree list}}
* Samsung Techwin
** Hanwha Techwin
*[[Larsen & Toubro]]
{{Tree list/end}}
| design_date        = 2012–2017
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*[[Hanwha Techwin]] (2017)
*Hanwha Land Systems (2017–2018)
*[[Larsen & Toubro]] (2018–present)
}}
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 2017–present
| number             = 
| variants           = 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 38&nbsp;km
| sights             = Safran MINEO DFSS
| length             = 
| width              = 
| height             = 
| clearance          = 
| weight             = 
| suspension         = 
| speed              = 
| fuel_capacity      = 
| vehicle_range      = 
| primary_armament   = 
| secondary_armament = 7.62&nbsp;mm machine gun
| armour             = 
| engine             = 
| transmission       = Allison Transmission India X1100-5A3<br/>4 forward, 2 reverse
| crew               = 
| engine_power       = 
| pw_ratio           = 
}}

On 25 March 2012, South Korean president [[Lee Myung-bak]] and the Indian [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]], [[Manmohan Singh]] signed [[Memorandum of Understanding]] (MoU) to strengthen the economy and military exchanges.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=123&oid=154&aid=0000003053 |script-title=ko:한·인도 공동성명 |publisher=[[Blue House]] |date=2012-03-25}}</ref> On 29 March 2012 at DEFEXPO, [[SAMSUNG TECHWIN|Samsung Techwin]] and [[Larsen & Toubro]] announced their partnership to produce the K9 Thunder in [[India]]. As per the agreement, Samsung Techwin will transfer key technologies, and the vehicle will be manufactured under license in India using 50 per cent of the domestic content such as FCS and communication system.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/engineering/lt-samsung-join-hands-for-indias-howitzer-artillery/articleshow/12457051.cms?from=mdr |title=L&T, Samsung join hands for India's Howitzer artillery |publisher=The Economic Times |date=2012-03-29}}</ref>

Two units of K9 were sent to [[Thar Desert]], [[Rajasthan]] for firing and mobility test, and competed against Russian [[2S19 Msta|2S19]]. Operated by [[Indian Armed Forces|Indian military]] personnel, the K9 fired 587 Indian ammunitions including Nub round and drove a total distance of 1,000&nbsp;km. Maintenance test was conducted at [[Pune]], EMI (electromagnetic interference) test at [[Chennai]], and technical environment test was held in [[Bengaluru]] until March 2014. K9 Thunder achieved all ROC set by Indian military while the Russian counterpart failed to do so.<ref name="salesperson interview" /><ref name="Defense Today K9" /> Hanwha Techwin (previously Samsung Techwin) later told in an interview that the Russian engine performance dropped when the air density is low and in high temperature, the placement of the engine also resulted in the center of the mass located at the rear, making the vehicle difficult to climb high angles. On the other hand, K9 benefitted from automatic control system of the engine, providing the optimum performance based on given condition automatically—this was one of the decisive reason why India selected K9 over 2S19.<ref name="Defense Today K9 India">{{cite web |url=http://www.defensetoday.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1694 |title=K9 자주포 인도수출 Q&A|date=28 August 2020}}</ref>

In September 2015, the Indian [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defense]] (MoD) selected Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro as preferred bidder to supply 100 '''K9 Vajra-T''' to the [[Indian Army]] after K9 outperformed 2S19 Msta-S and passed two-year trial.<ref>{{cite web|title = India's Newest Gun: Fast and Deadly|url = https://thediplomat.com/2015/10/indias-newest-gun-fast-and-deadly/|website = The Diplomat|access-date = 2015-10-09|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151011181059/https://thediplomat.com/2015/10/indias-newest-gun-fast-and-deadly/|archive-date = 2015-10-11|url-status = live}}</ref> On 6 July 2016, India agreed in purchasing 100 K9 Vajra-T for $750 million.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.konas.net/article/article.asp?idx=46180 |script-title=ko:한국산 K-9 자주포 100문 인도 수출.. 가격협상 마쳐 |publisher=Konas Net |date=2016-07-06}}</ref> On 29 March 2017, the [[Government of India]] approved budget of $646 million for purchasing 100 K9 Vajra-T.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20170402047700014?input=1195m |script-title=ko:국산 K-9 자주포 인도 수출...양국 국방협력 강화 |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2017-04-02}}</ref> A formal contract of $310 million was signed between Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro in [[New Delhi]] on 21 April. Hanwha Techwin will supply first 10 K9 Vajra-T, and 90 will be license produced in India by Larsen & Toubro.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://newsis.com/view/?id=NISX20170421_0014846773&cID=10301&pID=10300 |title=K-9 자주포 100문 인도 수출 확정...3500억 규모 |publisher=[[Newsis]] |date=2017-04-21}}</ref>

K9 Vajra-T consist 14 major Indian manufactured systems, 50% of component by value, which include Nub ammunition capable [[Fire-control system|FCS]] and its storage, communication system, and environment control and NBC protection system. Additional systems were installed such as GPS (Gunner's Primary Sight) for direct firing capability, and South African APU, which was proven for desert operation—Korean APU was under development phase during Indian trial. The vehicle's overall design was modified to suitable for operation in desert and high temperature condition, including the change of firing rate to 3 rounds in 30 seconds.<ref name="Defense Today K9" /><ref name="Defense Today K9 India" /><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Global|first=IndraStra|title=Indian Army Inducts Two New Artillery Systems|url=https://www.indrastra.com/2018/11/Indian-Army-s-New-Artillery-Systems-004-11-2018-0021.html|journal=IndraStra|issn=2381-3652|access-date=2018-11-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118164856/https://www.indrastra.com/2018/11/Indian-Army-s-New-Artillery-Systems-004-11-2018-0021.html|archive-date=2018-11-18|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20170424/72/BBSMSTR_000000010026/view.do |title=K9 '바지라' 인도 수출 |publisher=Republic of Korea Defense Media Agency |date=2017-04-23 |access-date=30 August 2021 |archive-date=28 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230128225640/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20170424/72/BBSMSTR_000000010026/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/indian-army-gets-more-firepower-rajnath-singh-flags-off-51st-k9-vajra-t-gun/1825430/|title=Indian army gets more firepower! Rajnath Singh flags off 51st K9 Vajra-T Gun|date=2020-01-16|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-20}}</ref>

[[File:Indian K9 SPH at Ladakh during Indo-China Clashes .jpg|thumb|right|[[Indian Army]] K9 Vajra-T deployed on Ladakh plateau during [[2020–2021 China–India skirmishes|China–India skirmishes]]]]

In February 2020, media reported that [[IIT Madras]] along with [[IIT Kanpur]], [[Armament Research and Development Establishment]] (ARDE) and [[Research Centre Imarat]] (RCI) are working on redesigning an existing 155&nbsp;mm shell using [[ramjet]] propulsion that can cover 60&nbsp;km+ range. It will be compatible with K9 Vajra-T. The shell will use precision guidance kit for trajectory correction. IIT Madras is ensuring that [[Munitions India]] can manufacture the shells.<ref>{{cite news |last1=MP |first1=Sidharth |date=21 February 2020 |title=IIT-M working on next-gen Ramjet-powered 155mm artillery shells for Indian Army |publisher=WION |url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-m-working-on-next-gen-ramjet-powered-155mm-artillery-shells-for-indian-army-282090 |access-date=22 August 2022}}</ref>

The 100th vehicle was delivered to the Indian Army on 18 February 2021, completing the contract ahead the schedule.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-02-20|script-title=ko:100번째 K9 바지라 자주포 인도육군에 인도...추가 발주 가능성도|url=https://www.g-enews.com/view.php?ud=202102201050227006c5557f8da8_1|access-date=2021-09-01|website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]]|language=ko}}</ref> The tanks are being produced in L&T's facility in Armoured Systems Complex, [[Hazira]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-09 |title=Fortune India Exclusive: L&T eyes big growth in defence and aerospace |url=https://www.fortuneindia.com/enterprise/fortune-exclusive-lt-eyes-big-growth-in-defence-and-aerospace/119127 |access-date=2024-11-14 |website=Fortune India |language=en}}</ref>

In May 2021, it was reported that India's [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] is working with Larsen & Toubro on a [[light tank]] using the K9 chassis with [[105 mm calibre|105&nbsp;mm]] or 120&nbsp;mm gun system to counter China's [[Type 15 tank]]. The light tank variant was opted out as the estimated vehicle weight exceeded 30[[Tonne|&nbsp;tonne]], limiting the places to operate.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Philip|first=Snehesh Alex|date=14 June 2021|title=India sets eyes on Russian Sprut light tanks to counter China, gets rare access to trials|work=The Print|url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-sets-eyes-on-russian-sprut-light-tanks-to-counter-china-gets-rare-access-to-trials/676057/|access-date=10 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2021-05-16|script-title=ko:중국군에 맞설 인도 경전차 사업...국산 K21-105가 도전장|url=https://www.chosun.com/politics/politics_general/2021/05/16/KCSFGQ2YURB23H2MDLNAUN6XYI/|access-date=2021-09-01|website=[[The Chosun Ilbo]]|language=ko}}</ref>

The Indian Army planned ordering an additional 40 K-9 Vajra-T from Larsen & Toubro as of 2021 after completion of high altitude trials at [[Ladakh]] under cold climatic conditions.<ref>{{cite web|last=Philip|first=Snehesh Alex|date=2021-08-09|title=Trials in Ladakh a success, Army looks at ordering 40 more K9 Vajra-T howitzers for mountains|url=https://theprint.in/defence/trials-in-ladakh-a-success-army-looks-at-ordering-40-more-k9-vajra-howitzers-for-mountains/711436/|access-date=2021-08-10|website=ThePrint|language=en-US}}</ref> India is also looking to export the K9 Vajra-T variant to third countries in collaboration with South Korea and industry partners.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Song|first1=Sang-ho|last2=Kang|first2=Yoon-seung|date=2021-10-21|title=Partnering with S. Korea, India seeks to export K9 howitzers to third countries: Indian secretary|url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20211021006500325|access-date=2021-10-21|website=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|language=en}}</ref>

As per a report in 2022, the MoD could place a repeat order of 200 K9 Vajra-T worth {{INRConvert|9600|c|lk=on|year=2022}} after satisfactory performance of the guns at high altitude terrain.<ref>{{cite web|last=Unnithan|first=Sandeep|date=23 January 2022|title=What's behind a massive order for Made-in-India howitzers|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/what-s-behind-a-massive-order-for-made-in-india-howitzers-1903375-2022-01-23|access-date=2022-01-23|website=India Today|language=en}}</ref> The Batch II is to be equipped with enhanced engine suited for high altitude operation, and is expected to complete delivery by 2028.<ref>{{cite web|date=2022-01-24|script-title=ko:인도, 한화디펜스의 K9 바지라 자주포 200문 추가 주문|url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Global-Biz/2022/01/2022012411093525382bb03d9507_1|access-date=2022-02-20|website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]]|language=ko}}</ref>

The Acceptance  of Necessity (AoN) for first 100 units was cleared by 27 September 2022 by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). This will be followed by issuing [[request for proposal]] (RFP) to [[Larsen & Toubro|L&T]] and cost negotiations.<ref name="India Batch 2">{{Cite news |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=27 September 2022 |title=China threat in mind, Army to order another 100 K9 Vajra howitzers from L&T, more to follow |work=ThePrint |url=https://theprint.in/defence/china-threat-in-mind-army-to-order-another-100-k9-vajra-howitzers-from-lt-more-to-follow/1144787/ |access-date=27 September 2022}}</ref> As of February 2023, Hanwha was under a discussion for an order of 100 additional units.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Indian Army orders 100 additional K9 howitzers |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-army-orders-100-additional-k9-howitzers |access-date=2023-05-20 |website=Janes.com |date=20 February 2023 |language=en|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230403203952/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-army-orders-100-additional-k9-howitzers|archivedate=2023-04-03}}</ref> According to a report in May 2024, the clearance for next 100 units would be approved after the formation of a new government after [[2024 Indian general election]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dubey |first=Ajit |date=2024-05-29 |title=Major Make in India defence deals including K-9 Vajra, fighter jet engines on Centre's agenda |url=https://aninews.in/news/national/general-news/major-make-in-india-defence-deals-including-k-9-vajra-fighter-jet-engines-on-centres-agenda20240529164930/ |website=ANI News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Triffaux |title=Indian Army to Receive Additional 100 South Korean K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzers |url=https://armyrecognition.com/news/army-news/army-news-2024/indian-army-to-receive-additional-100-south-korean-k9-vajra-self-propelled-howitzers |access-date=2024-08-02 |website=armyrecognition.com |language=en-gb}}</ref> The [[Cabinet Committee on Security]] cleared the purchase of 100 units on 12 December 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=CCS clears Rs 20,000 crore Make in India projects for Su-30 fighter jets, 100 K-9 howitzers - The Economic Times |url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/ccs-clears-rs-20000-crore-make-in-india-projects-for-su-30-fighter-jets-100-k-9-howitzers/articleshow/116259513.cms |access-date=2024-12-12 |website=m.economictimes.com}}</ref> The contract, worth {{INRConvert|7628.70|c|year=2024}}, was signed with Larsen & Toubro on 20 December 2024 in the [[South Block]], [[New Delhi]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=2024-12-20 |title=Aatmanirbhar Bharat: MoD inks Rs 7,629 crore contract with L&T for K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for Indian Army |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2086514 |access-date=2024-12-20 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref> The entire order is to be processed and delivered by the end of 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-13 |title=Indian Army accelerates artillery modernisation with indigenous systems |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/army-artillery-modernisation-indigenous-systems-pinaka-rockets-k9-vajra-advanced-artillery-guns-2664259-2025-01-13 |access-date=2025-01-14 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> On 3 April 2025, L&T signed another contract with Hanwha Aerospace at $253 million to execute the order. The indigenous content of the system is expected to be over 60% for the order.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clark |first=Colin |date=2025-04-03 |title=India to double Hanwha self-propelled howitzer buy, will manufacture locally |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2025/04/india-to-double-hanwha-self-propelled-howitzer-buy-will-manufacture-locally/ |access-date=2025-04-03 |website=Breaking Defense |language=en-US}}</ref>

{{Excerpt|Munitions India|155 mm Smart Artillery Shell}}

===Norway===
In May 2015, Samsung Techwin joined the Norwegian artillery upgrade program, competing against the [[Krauss-Maffei Wegmann|KMW]] Panzerhaubitze 2000, the [[Nexter Systems|Nexter]] [[CAESAR self-propelled howitzer|CAESAR 6x6]], and the [[RUAG]] [[M109 howitzer#M109 KAWEST|M109 KAWEST]] to replace Norway's M109Gs with 24 new systems.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.idaegu.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=164750 |script-title=ko:장윤석 의원, 노르웨이와 방산·문화 협력 논의 |publisher=Daegu Newspaper |date=2015-05-20}}</ref> A single K9 was sent to Norway to join the competition. Operated by a sales team, the vehicle went through tests between November 2015 and January 2016.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.segye.com/newsView/20160207001259?OutUrl=naver |script-title=ko:노르웨이 설원에 간 자주포 K9 |publisher=Segye |date=2016-02-07 |newspaper=[[Segye Ilbo]] |last1=Com |first1=Segye }}</ref> During the January winter test, the K9 was the only vehicle that managed to drive through meter-thick snow field and fire its weapon without any issue. Competing vehicles experienced engine troubles or broken parts.<ref name="salesperson interview" /><ref name="CEO Interview"/>

The K9's engine was able to maintain heat overnight by simply covering the area with tarpaulin, a simple trick learned from operating experience, allowing the engine to ignite without failure the next day at an extremely cold temperature. The hydropneumatic suspension became a huge advantage for mobility, as its mechanism melted snow on mobility parts much quicker. The test result also impacted Finland and Estonia, who were invited to observe performances for their artillery replacement, to acquire the K9.<ref name="salesperson interview" /><ref name="CEO Interview">{{cite news |url=https://segye.com/view/20180220004415 |script-title=ko:손재일 한화지상방산 대표 "K-9, 해외마케팅 강화 |publisher=Segye |date=2018-02-20 |newspaper=[[Segye Ilbo]] |last1=Com |first1=Segye }}</ref>

In August 2016, the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency published their intention to continue negotiations with Hanwha Techwin and RUAG, while Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Systems had been put "on hold". Unnamed sources in the Norwegian Army had previously stated that the K9 was a leading candidate in the competition.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tu.no/artikler/haeren-ligger-an-til-a-fa-koreanske-kanoner/350619 |author=Per Erlien Dalløkken |title=Hæren ligger an til å få koreanske kanoner |trans-title=The army is likely to get Korean cannons |language=no |publisher=tu.no |date=24 August 2016 |access-date=24 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825165759/http://www.tu.no/artikler/haeren-ligger-an-til-a-fa-koreanske-kanoner/350619 |archive-date=25 August 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In December 2017, a contract of $230 million was signed between Hanwha Land Systems and the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, for supplying 24 K9 Thunder and 6 K10 ARV by 2020. The K9 outperformed competitors in various weather and terrain conditions according to Norwegian military officials during trials.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20171221023351014?input=1195m |script-title=ko:한화, K-9 자주포 24문 노르웨이에 수출 계약...2천452억원 규모(종합) |publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |date=2017-12-21 |newspaper=[[Yonhap News Agency]] |author1=김귀근 }}</ref>

The Norwegian variant was named '''K9 VIDAR''' (versatile indirect artillery system), and is based on the K9A1 configuration. It differs from the K9A1 by changing the BTCS to a Norwegian ODIN fire support system and radio communication systems for [[NATO]] operation. It mounts the gunner's sight for direct firing, and installed spall liner for additional protection.<ref name="Defense Today K9" /><ref name="Defense Times">{{cite web |date=2019-10-05 |title=K9A1 자주포의 시작 |language=ko |url=http://defensetimes.kr/article/view.php?&ss[fc]=4&bbs_id=DefenceTimes_news&doc_num=1754 |publisher=Defense Times}}</ref><ref name="Manufacturer Interview">{{cite AV media |date=2020-11-08 |script-title=ko:[군금해?!] K9A3 완전무인화? 우리가 몰랐던 K9자주포의 모든 것! |language=ko |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRM7R2FOhBY |publisher=국방TV}}</ref> Norwegian company [[Kongsberg Gruppen|Kongsberg]] participated in upgrading the K9 for Norway, Finland, and Estonia. The company will partner with Hanwha Defense again for Australia's AS9 program.<ref>{{cite web|date=2020-11-13|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 호주 자주포 사업 수주 '히든카드' 꺼내...콩스버그 협력|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=16146|access-date=2021-09-01|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref>

In November 2022, Norway used an option signed in 2017, to purchase 4 K9s and 8 K10s, increasing its total vehicles to 28 K9s and 14 K10s (2:1 ratio).<ref>{{Cite web |last=이 |first=보람 |date=2022-11-08 |script-title=ko:한화에어로스페이스, 노르웨이에 K9 자주포 추가 수출 |url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25115902 |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=[[JoongAng Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref> The delivery is expected to be completed in 2 years.<ref>{{Cite web |last=박 |first=희준 |date=2022-11-09 |script-title=ko:노르웨이, K9 4문·K10 8대 추가 수입...K9 수입량 총 28문 |url=http://news.tf.co.kr/read/world/1977870.htm |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=더팩트 |language=ko}}</ref>

In April 2025, it was announced that Norway plans to almost double its K9s by ordering an additional 24 K9s for about $534 million USD.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ruitenberg |first=Rudy |date=2025-04-04 |title=Norway to nearly double its K9 howitzer fleet for around $534 million |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2025/04/04/norway-to-nearly-double-its-k9-howitzer-fleet-for-around-534-million/ |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref>

===Estonia===
[[File:K9 Kõu Kevadtormil (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|[[Estonian Army]] K9 Kõu during military exercise]]

To reduce the cost per unit for both nations, Finland invited Estonia to jointly procure the K9. Under this arrangement, Finland provided test data on the K9 to Estonia, with approval from South Korea.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/baltic_states/?doc=127392|title=Estonia to team up with Finland to procure K9 Thunder howitzers|first=The Baltic Course – Балтийский|last=курс|access-date=2017-02-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203191818/http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/baltic_states/?doc=127392|archive-date=2017-02-03|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2017, Estonian military officials visited South Korea for price negotiations.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.ajunews.com/view/20170206183444057 |title=K-9자주포 유럽 2개국에 동시수출 |language=ko |publisher=[[Aju Business Daily]] |date=2017-02-06}}</ref>

In June 2018, [[Rauno Sirk]], the director of the Estonian military procurement agency, announced that Estonia would buy K9 Thunder howitzers. Hanwha Land Systems was to supply 12 used K9s for €46 million, which would cover maintenance, parts and training, as in the contract with Finland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://estonianworld.com/security/estonia-to-buy-artillery-from-south-korea-for-e46-million/|title=Estonia to buy artillery from South Korea for €46 million|last=Hankewitz|first=Sten|date=26 June 2018|work=Estonian World|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628055638/http://estonianworld.com/security/estonia-to-buy-artillery-from-south-korea-for-e46-million/|archive-date=28 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://newsis.com/view/?id=NISX20180626_0000347123&cID=10101&pID=10100 |script-title=ko:에스토니아, K9 자주포 12대 600억원에 도입 합의 |language=ko |publisher=[[Newsis]] |date=2018-06-27}}</ref> In October 2019, the Estonian Ministry of Defense announced that it would exercise the option to purchase 6 additional K9s under the terms of this contract, at an estimated cost of €20 million.<ref>{{cite web |date=2019-10-25 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 에스토니아에 K9 자주포 6대 추가 수출 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/view.php?ud=201910250802595817c5557f8da8_1 |access-date=2021-08-31 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=Global Economics |language=ko}}</ref>

In August 2021, the Estonian Centre for Defense Investment (RKIK) signed a €4.6 million contract with Hanwha Defense and Go Craft to modernize 24 '''K9EST Kõu''', hinting at purchasing 6 more for its inventory. The upgrade involves communication systems, a FCS, painting, fire suppression system, and electronics.<ref>{{cite web |date=2021-08-04 |script-title=ko:에스토니아군, 한화디펜스와 함께 K9 자주포 개조 착수...6문 추가 구매설 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/view.php?ud=2021080410262139c5557f8da8_1 |access-date=2021-09-01 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=Global Economics |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=2021-08-05|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 에스토니아 'K9 자주포' 현대화 사업 수주|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=23955|access-date=2021-09-01|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref>

In September 2022, it was reported that Estonia had purchased 24 vehicles in total.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-22 |script-title=ko:합참의장, 에스토니아 총사령관 접견...군사·방산협력 논의 |url=https://www.ytn.co.kr/_ln/0101_202209221716198367 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[YTN]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref name="K9 Estonia service">{{Cite web |script-title=ko:한·에스토니아, 군사 교류 확대 '긴밀한 협력' |url=https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220923/1/BBSMSTR_000000010022/view.do |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=The Korea Defense Daily |language=ko |archive-date=13 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221213061917/https://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/newsWeb/20220923/1/BBSMSTR_000000010022/view.do |url-status=dead }}</ref> In October, the Estonian defense minister stated that Estonia would procure 12 additional K9s, bringing the total number up to 36 units.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2022/11/estonias-defense-minister-on-ukranian-lessons-future-investments-and-russias-cyber-threat/ |title=Estonia's defense minister on Ukrainian lessons, future investments and Russia's cyber threat |last=Mehta |first=Aaron |date=7 November 2022 |website=Breaking Defense |access-date=12 July 2024}}</ref> In November 2022, Go Craft opened Estonia's first private military workshop, and will start upgrading K9s.<ref>{{Cite web |author=<!--not stated--> |editor-last=Turovski |editor-first=Marcus |date=2022-11-30 |title=Go Craft opens first private military equipment service and repair workshop |url=https://news.err.ee/1608805537/go-craft-opens-first-private-military-equipment-service-and-repair-workshop |access-date=2022-12-09 |website=[[Eesti Rahvusringhääling]] |language=en}}</ref> In January 2023, Estonia ordered 12 vehicles for €36 million, which will be delivered before 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-17 |script-title=ko:[단독] 한화에어로, 에스토니아와 'K9 자주포' 12문 추가 계약 ... 3600만 유로 |url=https://biz.newdaily.co.kr/site/data/html/2023/01/17/2023011700037.html |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=[[Newdaily]] |language=ko}}</ref> The first Estonian edition by Go Craft was rolled out in February 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |author=<!--not stated--> |editor1-last=Whyte |editor1-first=Andrew |editor2-last=Nael |editor2-first=Merili |date=2023-02-23 |title=EDF takes delivery of first K9 to be fitted out for Estonian conditions |url=https://news.err.ee/1608894809/edf-takes-delivery-of-first-k9-to-be-fitted-out-for-estonian-conditions |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=[[Eesti Rahvusringhääling]] |language=en}}</ref>

===Australia===
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = AS9 Huntsman
| image              = 
| image_size         = 
| caption            = 
| type               = 
| origin             = South Korea <br /> Australia
<!-- Type selection -->
| is_ranged          = yes
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = yes
| service            = 2025–present
| wars               = 
| used_by            = 
| designer           = {{Tree list}}
* Samsung Techwin
** Hanwha Defense
** Hanwha Aerospace
{{Tree list/end}}
| design_date        = 2010–2012<br/>2020–2024
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*Hanwha Aerospace (2023–2024)
*Hanwha Defence Australia (2024–present)
}}
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 2023–present
| number             = 
| variants           = 
| range              = 
| max_range          = 40&nbsp;km (M982, guided)
| sights             = Safran MINEO DFSS
| mass               = {{convert|52|t|abbr=on|sp=us}}, combat
| length             = Overall: {{convert|12.4|m|ftin|abbr=on|sp=us}}
| width              = 
| height             = 
| suspension         = 
| speed              = {{convert|60|km/h|abbr=on}}
| fuel_capacity      = 
| vehicle_range      = 
| primary_armament   = 
| secondary_armament = Pintle Mount 5.56&nbsp;mm or 7.62&nbsp;mm<br/>RWS 5.56&nbsp;mm, 7.62&nbsp;mm, 12.7&nbsp;mm, or 40&nbsp;mm
| armour             = Bisalloy armour steel<br/>Spall liner<br/>Plasan add-on armor
| engine             = 
| transmission       = 
| crew               = 
| engine_power       = 
| pw_ratio           = 
}}
In June 2005 in Australia, the defense ministers of the two nations held a meeting and discussed trading opportunities involving K9 Thunder and Australian 5-inch naval gun ammunition.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LSD&mid=sec&sid1=102&oid=022&aid=0000100009 |script-title=ko:국산 K-9자주포 호주수출 추진 |publisher=Segye |date=2005-06-01}}</ref> In August 2009, it was reported that the consortium of [[Samsung Techwin]] and [[Raytheon Australia]] had the upper hand for Australia's Land 17 artillery replacement program by becoming a sole bidder, as [[Krauss-Maffei Wegmann|KMW]], the manufacturer of the competing [[Panzerhaubitze 2000]], had not provided the detailed offering proposal that Australia requested.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.seoul.co.kr/news/newsView.php?id=20090804004011 |title=K-9 자주포 호주 수출 유력 |publisher=[[Seoul Shinmun]] |date=2009-08-04}}</ref>

The K9 was sent to Australia, and was evaluated by the Australian military starting in April 2010. The test included firing [[M982 Excalibur]], a requirement which the K9 satisfied. The Australian variant '''AS9''' was expected to feature a NATO standard [[fire-control system]], the BMS-F (Battlefield Management System – Fires), the RWS (Remote Weapon System), and anti-tank mine protection. The hydropneumatic suspension was enhanced to support its increased weight.<ref name="Defense Today K9" />

In June 2010, the K9 became the preferred bidder for the LAND 17 program. The project budget was redirected for restoration due to the [[2010–2011 Queensland floods|floods in Queensland]] in 2011, which led to the cancelation of the project in May 2012.<ref name="salesperson interview" /><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.newdaily.co.kr/site/data/html/2012/04/26/2012042600032.html |title=K-9 자주포, 호주 땅도 밟을까 |publisher=[[Newdaily]] |date=2012-04-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Lane |first=Sabra |date=3 May 2012 |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-05-03/defence-white-paper-now-due-in-2013/3987042 |title=Defence projects scrapped to save billions |work=[[ABC News (Australia)|ABC News]] |publisher=[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]] |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503202448/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-05-03/defence-white-paper-now-due-in-2013/3987042 |archive-date=3 May 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2019, in the lead-up to the 2019 Federal Election, the Prime Minister of Australia, Scott Morrison, announced that 30 K9 howitzers and associated support equipment, including ten K10 ammunition resupply vehicles, would be acquired for the ADF. No time frame was given for the purchase.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Bergmann |first=Kym |date=June 2019 |title=Australian Army to receive massive boost in firepower with 155mm SPH purchase |url=https://search.informit.org/doi/abs/10.3316/agispt.20190702013378 |url-access=subscription |journal=Asia-Pacific Defence Reporter |volume=45 |issue=5 |pages=12–16 |issn=1446-6880}}</ref>

In September 2020, the Minister for Defense, Linda Reynolds, announced a request for tender to locally build 30 K9s under the Land 8116 Phase 1 Protected Mobility Fires requirement. The sole-source request for tender will be released to the preferred supplier, Hanwha Defense Australia, to build and maintain 30 K9s and 15 K10s, as well as their supporting systems. These will be built at Hanwha Defense Australia's Geelong facility. Australian variant '''AS9 Huntsman''' is based on Norwegian K9 VIDAR. It will retain the options offered in 2010 with up-to-date modifications.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/land-amphibious/6760-government-announces-request-for-tender-for-army-protected-mobile-fires? |title=Government announces request for tender for Army Protected Mobile Fires |last=Kuper |first=Stephen |date=2 September 2020 |website=Defence Connect |access-date=12 July 2024}}</ref>

In December 2021, the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) of Australia and Hanwha Defense Australia signed a formal contract of producing 30 AS9s and 15 '''AS10 AARV'''s under license at Hanwha Defense Australia facility in [[Geelong]], [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]]; the facility, which is included in the contract, will begin its construction in Q2 2022. The CASG and the DAPA also signed an MOU for defense cooperation between the two countries. The estimated value of the deal is $788 million, and manufacturing is expected to start in Q4 2024.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-12-13|script-title=ko:파이브 아이즈도 'K9 자주포' 쏜다...한화, 호주에 1조 규모 수출 – 머니투데이|url=https://news.mt.co.kr/mtview.php?no=2021121311453525987|access-date=2021-12-13|website=[[Money Today]]|language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=S. Korea to export 30 units of K-9 howitzer to Australia under W930b deal|url=https://www.koreaherald.com/article/2739837|access-date=2021-12-13|website=[[The Korea Herald]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Kadib |first=Charbel |date=2021-12-13 |title=Huntsman deal to strengthen regional security posture: PM |url=https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/key-enablers/9245-huntsman-deal-to-strengthen-regional-security-posture-pm |website=Defence Connect |publisher=Momentum Media |access-date=2021-12-13}}</ref>

In February 2022, Hanwha Defense Australia made a selection of site of 150,000 m<sup>2</sup>, which includes 32,000 m<sup>2</sup> manufacturing facility, 1.5&nbsp;km long track, and various test and R&D sites, for its first overseas factory named H-ACE (Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence) at Geelong, which will create 300 jobs for local specialists. Construction began on 8 April, and is expected to take 2 years to complete.<ref name="Australia Factory 1" /><ref name="Australia Factory 2" /><ref>{{Cite web  |date=2022-04-08 |script-title=ko:호주 현지에 한국산 자주포·장갑차 생산 공장 생긴다 |url=https://www.newsis.com/view/?id=NISX20220408_0001826206 |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Newsis]] |language=ko}}</ref>

In March 2022, Hanwha Defense signed a $67 million deal with Norwegian firm [[Kongsberg Gruppen]] for the installation of C4 for Australian vehicles. Kongsberg is expected to supply Integrated Combat Solution (ICS) as well as ODIN fire support systems via Kongsberg Australia.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-11 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, '1조' 호주 자주포 수출 프로젝트 잰걸음 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=32404 |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref> On 19 July, Hanwha Systems signed a contract with Hanwha Defense Australia to supply HUMS (Health and Usage Monitoring System) and Situational Awareness System (SAS) for AS9s and AS10s at a cost of 20.8 billion KRW.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-20 |script-title=ko:한화시스템-한화디펜스-원웹, 호주軍 위성인터넷 사업 협력 MOU 체결 |url=https://www.lawissue.co.kr/view.php?ud=202207201903331922204ead0791_12 |access-date=2022-07-23 |website=로이슈}}</ref>

In October 2022, Hanwha signed a $5 million deal with Safran to supply 32 MINEO DFSS for direct firing capability.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-05 |script-title=ko:한화 '호주 자주포 사업'에 프랑스 사프란 가세 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=43116 |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref> In January 2023, Hanwha signed a $3.5 million contract with a German company AirSense Analytics to supply CBRN system for the vehicles.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-30 |script-title=ko:한화에어로, K9 호주형 모델에 독일산 화학·유해물질 센서 탑재 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=48948 |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

In April 2023, Australia withdrew from Land 8116 Phase 2, a repeating order equal to Phase 1 in volume, as the new government decided to focus on [[M142 HIMARS]], air, and naval assets.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-24 |script-title=ko:한화에어로 '호주몽' 비상등...장갑차 축소·자주포 추가 도입 중단 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=52839 |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

In May 2023, Israeli firm [[Plasan]] completed the protection test for the program.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-01 |script-title=ko:한화, 호주 '헌츠맨 프로젝트' AS9·AS10 폭발 테스트 성공적 완료 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=54621 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

Production of AS9 and AS10 began in June 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-28 |script-title=ko:[모닝픽] 한화디펜스, 호주서 K9자주포·K10 탄약보급장갑차 생산 시작 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Global-Biz/2023/06/2023062807492176356ed0c62d49_1 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-28 |script-title=ko:한화에어로스페이스, 호주軍 공급용 K9자주포 양산 개시 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=55894 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref> In July, Australian army conducted tests on ammunition compatibility at the Agency for Defense Development test center in South Korea.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-07-04 |script-title=ko:호주 육군, 한화 'AS9 자주포' 포탄 발사 테스트 진행 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=56228 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref> In August, another Israeli company Epsilor was selected to supply NATO standard 6T Li-ion batteries for the howitzer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-22 |script-title=ko:호주, K9 자주포에 이스라엘산 전력 시스템 장착 |url=http://www.hansbiz.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=661187 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=한스경제 |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=6T Li-Ion NATO Batteries |url=https://www.epsilor.com/product/6t-li-ion-nato-batteries/ |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Epsilor |language=en-US}}</ref>

On 28 March 2024, Hanwha Aerospace announced the beginning of assembly of two AS9s and one AS10 in Changwon. The remaining 28 AS9s and 14 AS10s will be built at H-ACE in Australia.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=ko:한화에어로스페이스 '호주 육군용 AS9 자주포' 창원 공장서 첫 생산 돌입 |url=https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2024033101039930114003 |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=[[Munhwa Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref>

On 23 August 2024, Hanwha Aerospace invited Korean and Australian government officials for an opening ceremony of H-ACE. The factory will start mass production of AS9 and AS10 this year and deliver all vehicles to the Australian Army by 2027.<ref>{{Cite web |last=강 |first=지용 |date=2024-08-23 |script-title=ko:한화에어로스페이스, 호주 방산 생산기지 완공…국내 첫 해외 생산 |url=https://www.financialpost.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=211662 |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=파이낸셜포스트 |language=ko}}</ref>

In December 2024, Hanwha Aerospace delivered two AS9 and one AS10 to Hanwha Defence Australia, and Australian military received them in January 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vandenbosch |title=Australia Officially Receives Its First AS9 Huntsman Vehicles from South Korea |url=https://armyrecognition.com/news/army-news/2025/australia-officially-receives-its-first-as9-huntsman-vehicles-from-south-korea |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=armyrecognition.com |language=en-gb}}</ref>

===Egypt===

In 2010, the K9 was evaluated by the Egyptian military to replace its aging artillery fleet. The deal was delayed when the Egyptian government requested a reduction on technology transfer fees, which would have required the South Korean government's approval. The negotiations ended as regional instability due to the [[Arab Spring]] caused the Egyptian government to postpone the project indefinitely.<ref name="salesperson interview" />

In April 2017, it was reported that Hanwha Techwin was again in negotiations with Egypt to export the K9 Thunder.<ref name="businesspost.co.kr">{{cite news |url= http://www.businesspost.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=46398 |title= Hanwha Techwin to improve earnings due to K9 Thunder exports |date= 5 April 2017 |website=비즈니스포스트 |trans-website=Business Post |language= ko |access-date= 24 August 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170825020136/http://www.businesspost.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=46398 |archive-date= 25 August 2017 |url-status= live }}</ref> A K9 howitzer was sent to Egypt in July and was test-fired at a range located west of Cairo in August, along with competitors such as the French [[CAESAR self-propelled howitzer|CAESAR]], Russian [[2S35 Koalitsiya-SV]], and Chinese [[PLZ-45]].<ref name="defenceweb.co.za">{{cite news |url= http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=48661 |title= Egypt evaluating new artillery |date= 24 July 2017 |language= en |access-date= 24 August 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170825020846/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=48661 |archive-date= 25 August 2017 |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.mbn.co.kr/news/world/3294251 |title=K-9 자주포 이집트서 시험발사...성능평가 후 수출 기대 |publisher=[[Maeil Broadcasting Network]] |date=2017-07-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Helou|first=Agnes|date=2022-02-01|title=Why did Egypt choose to buy South Korea's K9 howitzer?|url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2022/02/01/why-did-egypt-choose-to-buy-south-koreas-k9-howitzer/|access-date=2022-02-20|website=Defense News|language=en}}</ref> During the test, the K9 hit a target ship approaching to the shore, successfully performing an [[anti-access/area denial]] simulation against enemy ships for the [[Egyptian Navy]].<ref>{{cite web|date=2022-02-03|script-title=ko:곡사 화기로 망망대해 표적 저격...K9에 반한 이집트, K10·K11도 담았다|url=https://news.mt.co.kr/mtview.php?no=2022020309170864535|access-date=2022-02-20|website=[[Money Today]]|language=ko}}</ref><ref name="K9 Egypt & K9A2" />

In October 2021, the two nations discussed the sale of the K9 Thunder. The estimated value of the deal was $2 billion, including training of technicians.<ref>{{cite web|last=남 |first=수현|date=2021-10-12|script-title=ko:박병석, 이집트 대통령 만나 세일즈 외교|url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25014005|access-date=2021-10-12|website=[[JoongAng Ilbo]]|language=ko}}</ref> In the same month, the Egyptian minister of military production visited Hanwha Defense and Hyundai WIA facility to see the manufacturing process of the K9 Thunder and K2 Black Panther respectively.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-10-25|script-title=ko:[단독] 이집트 방산물자부장관, 한화디펜스·현대위아 공장 방문|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=26706|access-date=2021-12-12|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref> The two parties, including Egyptian president [[Abdel Fattah el-Sisi]], met again at the EDEX 2021 exposition to discuss the export of the howitzer.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-11-30|script-title=ko:한화디펜스 K9 자주포, 이집트 수출길 오르나...한·이집트 군당국 논의|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=28357|access-date=2021-12-12|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref> Egypt was reportedly looking to produce the howitzer under license.<ref>{{cite web|date=2021-12-11|script-title=ko:[여의옥] 한화, 'K9 자주포' 이집트 수출 물밑협상|url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=28872|access-date=2021-12-12|website=www.theguru.co.kr|language=ko}}</ref>

In February 2022, South Korea's [[Defense Acquisition Program Administration]] (DAPA) announced that [[Hanwha Defense]] had signed a $1.6 billion K9 Thunder export contract at Egypt's Artillery House, attended by Egypt's Ministry of National Defense and key officials from both countries. Egypt also signed a loan contract with South Korea. According to DAPA, the deal provided for the production of 200 '''K9A1EGY''' and 100 '''K10EGY''' in Egypt, including technology transfer.<ref name="K9 Egypt export">{{cite news|url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20220201001900325|title=S. Korea to export K9 howitzers to Egypt in 2 tln won deal|newspaper=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|date=1 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220201160416/https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20220201001900325|archive-date=1 February 2022|access-date=1 February 2022|author= |last1=Kang |first1=Yoon-Seung }}</ref><ref name="Yonhap1">{{cite web|url=https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LPOD&mid=sec&oid=001&aid=0012952423&isYeonhapFlash=Y&rc=N|title=K-9 자주포, 2조원대 이집트 수출 극적 성사...아프리카 첫 진출|publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|date=1 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220201101652/https://news.naver.com/main/read.naver?mode=LPOD&mid=sec&oid=001&aid=0012952423&isYeonhapFlash=Y&rc=N|archive-date=1 February 2022|access-date=1 February 2022|author=Jung Bitna}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Hanwha Defense inks deal to export the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer to Egypt| date=3 February 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVtdknJE0m0|language=en|access-date=2022-02-20}}</ref> An unknown number of the earliest vehicles in the series were to be produced in South Korea and delivered to the [[Egyptian Army]] and the Egyptian Navy.<ref>{{cite web|date=2022-02-03|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 이집트와 K9 자주포 2조원 규모 수출 계약...'역대 최대 규모'|url=http://www.ftoday.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=231376|access-date=2022-02-20|website=파이낸셜투데이|trans-website=Financial Today|language=ko}}</ref><ref name="Egypt Engine"/><ref>{{Cite web |last=임 |first=재현 |title="K9 이집트 자주포 수출 계약, 금융조건 합의했다"...수출입은행, 일각 비판에 정면 반박 |url=https://www.ddaily.co.kr//page/view/2022021613320571583 |access-date=2023-12-31 |website=디지털데일리 |trans-website=Digital Daily |language=ko}}</ref> On 25 February, two more contracts involving parts purchase and assembly were signed at the Military Factory 200, a state-owned Egyptian arms manufacturer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-26 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 이집트와 K-9자주포 공동생산 후속계약 체결 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Industry/2022/02/2022022615531936614fb262fcb_1 |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=Global Economics |language=ko}}</ref>

The production of the first K9A1EGY was expected in Q4 2022, with armor steel provided by Bisalloy Steels. The first batch was to be delivered to Egypt until 2024, while the rest will be produced in Egypt with a localization rate of 50%. Egypt is expecting to increase localization to 67% in five years.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-12 |script-title=ko:한화, 이집트 K9사업 파트너로 호주 철강기업 낙점 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=36630 |access-date=2022-07-18 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=tf.co.kr |date=2022-06-19 |script-title=ko:이집트 내년부터 K9A1EGY 자주 포 생산...아랍·아프리카 수출협의 |url=http://news.tf.co.kr/read/world/1946099.htm |access-date=2022-06-19 |website=더팩트 |trans-website=The Fact |language=ko}}</ref> On 22 October 2022, Hanwha Defense signed a contract with Arab International Optronics to transfer automatic fire control system (AFCS) and other substantial technologies.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-24 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 이집트 방산기업과 K9 자주포 부품 생산계약 체결 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=43937 |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref> In May 2023, despite the turmoil on Australian Land 8116 Phase 2, Hanwha Aerospace placed a significant order with Bisalloy Steels for Egyptian program.<ref>{{Cite web |author=<!--Not stated-->  |date=2023-05-16 |title=Hanwha places order with Bisalloy for Egyptian project |url=https://www.aumanufacturing.com.au/hanwha-places-order-with-bisalloy-for-egyptian-project |access-date=2023-05-20 |website=Australian Manufacturing Forum |language=en-AU}}</ref> At a military parade on 25 October 2023, the [[Egyptian Army]] unveiled the K9A1EGY in service with the 4th Armored Division.<ref name="Janes 2023-10-26">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/egypt-displays-k9-howitzer-in-parade|title=Egypt displays K9 howitzer in parade|publisher=[[Janes Information Services]]|date=26 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102053111/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/egypt-displays-k9-howitzer-in-parade|archive-date=2 November 2023|access-date=2 November 2023|author=Jeremy Binnie}}</ref>

On 1 July 2024, media reported that the exact number of exports is 216 K9A1EGY, 39 K10, and 51 K11. Previously, Egypt received K9A1 and K10 vehicles with 1,000 horsepower Korean-made SMV1000 engines for testing purposes.<ref name="Egypt quantity">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=6F9WlU7PDZE |script-title=ko:국산 파워팩 자주포 탑재 첫 수출 |date=2024-07-01 |last=MBC경남 NEWS |access-date=2024-08-29 |via=YouTube}}</ref>

On 5 October 2024, Arab Defense reported that the Ministry of Military Production announced local manufacturing of the SMV1000 engine by the state-owned Helwan Casting Company, also known as Military Factory 9. In addition, Egypt is working with Hanwha Aerospace in transferring manufacturing technology and installing production lines. The Military 200 will be the main manufacturer, and the Military 100 will produce the CN98 cannon and armored steel. Moreover, Egypt plans to become the regional center to export the K9 Thunder system to African and Arab countries, and the Minister of Military Production confirmed negotiations with a number of countries.<ref name="egypt engine">{{Cite web |date=2024-10-05 |title=Egypt produces the advanced Korean K9 Thunder engine locally |url=https://www.defense-arabic.com/2024/10/05/%d9%85%d8%b5%d8%b1-%d8%aa%d9%86%d8%aa%d8%ac-%d9%85%d8%ad%d8%b1%d9%83-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%af%d9%81%d8%b9-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%83%d9%88%d8%b1%d9%8a-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%aa%d8%b7%d9%88%d8%b1-k9-thunder/ |website=Arab Defense}}</ref>

===Romania===
On 23 September 2022, Romanian Minister of National Defense [[Vasile Dîncu]] visited South Korea and signed a letter of intent to strengthen defense cooperation. On 26 September, Romanian media reported that the military was interested in purchasing K9 Thunder and K2 Black Panther.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-27 |script-title=ko:루마니아, 한국의 K9자주포와 K2흑표전차 구매 희망 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Global-Biz/2022/09/2022092706410047136ed0c62d49_1 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |trans-website=Global Economics |language=ko}}</ref> Besides the K9 howitzers, Romania also expressed interest in the [[K239 Chunmoo]] [[multiple rocket launcher]] and the [[K21]] [[infantry fighting vehicle]]. On 6 February 2023, [[Hanwha Aerospace]] and [[Romarm]] signed a memorandum of understanding for Romanian production of [[Smokeless powder|powders]], explosives and other ground military systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-06 |title=România - planuri mari privind achizițiile din Coreea de Sud. Obuziere K9, mașini de luptă și K239 Chunmoo, versiunea coreeană a HIMARS |url=https://www.defenseromania.ro/romania-planuri-mari-privind-achizitiile-din-coreea-de-sud-obuziere-k9-masini-de-lupta-si-k239-chunmoo-versiunea-coreeana-a-himars_620978.html |work=Defense Romania |language=ro}}</ref>

In July, it was reported that Romania planned to acquire 54 (3 systems of 18) K9 Thunders.<ref>{{Cite web |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.-->  |title=S-a discutat producția în România a unor componente ale obuzierelor K9 Thunder. România demarează achiziția de obuziere autopropulsate |url=https://www.defenseromania.ro/s-a-discutat-productia-in-romania-a-unor-componente-ale-obuzierelor-k9-thunder-romania-demareaza-achizitia-de-obuziere-autopropulsate_623475.html |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=Defense Romania |date=7 July 2023 |language=ro}}</ref> Romania also discussed the possibility of license producing some parts locally with Hanwha Aerospace.<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2023-07-09 |script-title=ko:한화 K9 자주포, 루마니아 수출 순풍... "1차분 8000억원" 전망도 |url=https://biz.chosun.com/industry/company/2023/07/10/V527FJ6RLNGTVCUHDRDKAMBGMM/ |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=[[ChosunBiz]] |language=ko}}</ref> One Romanian commentator, retired general Virgil Bălăceanu, argued that the K9 acquisition was part of a broader shift back to tracked and away from wheeled vehicles in military doctrine, motivated by the observed importance of all-terrain mobility in combat during the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Curtifan |first=Tudor |date=2023-10-25 |title=România cumpără obuziere autopropulsate șenilate de 155 mm cu un motiv. De ce tehnica pe roți nu a fost un pariu câștigător |url=https://www.defenseromania.ro/romania-cumpara-obuziere-autopropulsate-senilate-de-155-mm-cu-un-motiv-de-ce-tehnica-pe-roti-nu-a-fost-un-pariu-castigator_625217.html |access-date=2024-02-04 |website=Defense Romania |language=ro}}</ref> A second stage of the program, however, includes the acquisition of two systems consisting of 18 wheeled howitzers each intended to equip the lighter ''[[Vânători de munte]]'' units.<ref>{{cite AV media|title=Podcasturile Observatorul militar, ep.31, invitat general-lt. dr. ing. Teodor Incicaș |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6ky-0c8iYg |via=[[YouTube]] |publisher=Studioul Multimedia - Observatorul militar |language=ro |format=video |date=4 September 2023 |time=31:55}}</ref>

The contract bid for the tracked systems started on 29 July 2023, and three companies participated: [[BMC Otomotiv|BMC Savunma Sanayi]] with the T-155 Fırtına, [[Krauss-Maffei Wegmann]] with the Panzerhaubitze 2000, and Hanwha with the K9 Thunder. Of the three participants, only Hanwha progressed to the second phase of the bid, which involved negotiations regarding the technical and financial proposal. The second phase was completed in April 2024, though no final contract was signed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://monitorulapararii.ro/sud-coreenii-de-la-hanwha-au-pus-ochii-pe-romania-vor-deschiderea-unui-centru-de-logistica-si-mentenanta-pentru-obuzierele-autopropulsate-k9-dar-1-54656|title=Sud coreenii de la Hanwha au pus ochii pe România. Vor deschiderea unui centru de logistică şi mentenanţă pentru obuzierele autopropulsate K9, dar planurile sunt mult mai mari. Partea I|language=ro|author=Andreea Soare|website=[[:ro:Monitorul Apărării și Securității]]|trans-website=Defence & Security Monitor|date=26 April 2024}}</ref>

On 19 June 2024, Romanian Defense Minister [[Angel Tîlvăr]] finally decided to introduce 54 K9s worth [[South Korean won|₩]]1.3 trillion ([[United States dollar|$]]920 million) during an official meeting with South Korean Defense Minister [[Shin Won-sik]], who is visiting Romania.<ref name="YNA 2024-06-19">{{cite web|url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20240619007200315|title=Romania to buy S. Korean K-9 howitzers for US$920 mln|publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|date=19 June 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619135115/https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20240619007200315|archivedate=19 June 2024|accessdate=19 June 2024|author1=Lee Min-ji}}</ref> The Romanian version is called '''K9 Tunet''' and will have the "most modern technical specifications" of the K9 according to Peter Bae, the vice president of Hanwha Aerospace Europe.<ref name="monitorulapararii 2024-06-19">{{cite web |url=https://monitorulapararii.ro/romania-confirma-achizitia-obuzierelor-autopropulsate-k9-tunet-de-la-hanwha-aerospace-1-54929 |title=România confirmă achiziţia obuzierelor autopropulsate K9 Tunet de la Hanwha Aerospace |website=[[:ro:Monitorul Apărării și Securității]] |trans-website=Defence & Security Monitor |date=19 June 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619160451/https://monitorulapararii.ro/romania-confirma-achizitia-obuzierelor-autopropulsate-k9-tunet-de-la-hanwha-aerospace-1-54929 |archive-date=19 June 2024 |access-date=19 June 2024 |last=Soare |first=Andreea}}</ref><ref name="defenseromania 2024-05-02">{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseromania.ro/ce-stim-despre-tunetul-romanesc-versiunea-obuzierelor-k9-pe-care-o-va-avea-romania-va-dispune-de-cele-mai-moderne-specificatii-tehnice_628113.html |title=Ce știm despre Tunetul românesc. Versiunea obuzierelor K9 pe care o va avea România va dispune de cele mai moderne specificații tehnice |publisher=Defense Romania |date=2 May 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619160447/https://www.defenseromania.ro/ce-stim-despre-tunetul-romanesc-versiunea-obuzierelor-k9-pe-care-o-va-avea-romania-va-dispune-de-cele-mai-moderne-specificatii-tehnice_628113.html |archive-date=19 June 2024 |access-date=19 June 2024 |last=Curtifan |first=Tudor}}</ref> The first 18 vehicles will be completely built at the [[Changwon]] factory in Korea while the rest will be assembled in Romania.<ref name="tvrinfo 2024-06-19">{{cite web|url=https://tvrinfo.ro/armata-romana-cumpara-cateva-zeci-de-obuziere-senilate-k-9-tunet-din-coreea-de-sud/|title=Armata română cumpără câteva zeci de obuziere șenilate K-9 Tunet, din Coreea de Sud|publisher=[[Televiziunea Română]]|date=19 June 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619180951/https://tvrinfo.ro/armata-romana-cumpara-cateva-zeci-de-obuziere-senilate-k-9-tunet-din-coreea-de-sud/|archivedate=19 June 2024|accessdate=19 June 2024|author1=}}</ref>

On 9 July 2024, Hanwha Aerospace signed the ₩1.3 trillion contract with the [[Ministry of National Defence (Romania)|Romanian Ministry of Defense]] to supply 54 K9s and 36 K10s, including ammunition and support equipment packages. Hanwha will deliver the vehicle from 2027 in cooperation with a local defense company in Romania.<ref name="Joongang Daily 2024-07-10">{{cite web|url=https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2024-07-10/national/defense/Korea-to-export-K9-howitzers-to-Romania-in-nearly-1-billion-deal/2087163|title=Korea to export K9 howitzers to Romania in nearly $1 billion deal|publisher=[[Korea JoongAng Daily]]|date=10 July 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711001150/https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2024-07-10/national/defense/Korea-to-export-K9-howitzers-to-Romania-in-nearly-1-billion-deal/2087163|archivedate=11 July 2024|accessdate=11 July 2024|author1=Seo Ji-eun|author2=Lee Hay-june}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-10 |title="10번째 K9 도입국 탄생"… 한화에어로스페이스, 루마니아와 1.4조 계약 |url=https://www.hanwhaaerospace.com/kor/media/newsroom/view.do?seq=417 |website=Hanwha Aerospace}}</ref>

Hanwha plans to build the local production factory in Dâmbovița County, commencing in Q1 2026 for two years. Meanwhile, Hanwha will deliver 18 K9s and 12 K10s from South Korea.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hanwha to Open K9 Howitzer Factory in Romania |url=https://thedefensepost.com/2025/04/01/romania-hanwha-k9-factory/ |access-date=2025-06-30 |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Potential exports===
<!--READ FIRST: Please add to this list only if have signed the Memorandum of understanding (MOU) or have been selected as a preferred negotiation partner. Thank you.-->

====Vietnam====
[[Vietnam People's Army]] high-ranking officials showed interests in the K9 by visiting [[Republic of Korea Army|ROKA]] K9 operator unit and having discussion with [[Hanwha Aerospace]] on the potential K9 procurement for VPA.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-28 |title=General Phan Van Giang visits RoK's artillery brigade |url=https://en.qdnd.vn/military/intl-relations-and-cooperation/general-phan-van-giang-visits-rok-s-artillery-brigade-550716 |website=[[People's Army Newspaper]] |quote=During the visit, General [[Phan Văn Giang|Phan Van Giang]] and his entourage watched a live-fire demonstration of K9A1 self-propelled howitzer and were briefed on the brigade's organization and its staffed weapons and equipment, including K9A1 self-propelled howitzers and K10 automatic ammunition resupply vehicles.}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Vietnam outlines intent to procure K9 howitzer |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/vietnam-outlines-intent-to-procure-k9-howitzer |access-date=2024-04-25 |website=Janes.com |date=24 April 2024 |publisher=[[Janes Information Services]] |language=en |quote=Vietnamese Vice-Minister of National Defence Hoang Xuan Chien expressed an intention to procure the K9 at the '11th Korea-Vietnam Defense Strategy Dialogue' held in Hanoi on 23 April, according to a press release issued by the South Korea's Ministry of National Defense (MND) one day later.<br />Vietnam requires new artillery to replace its decades-old inventories including 155 mm M114 and 105 mm M101 howitzers. Reportedly, the People's Army of Vietnam seeks to procure 108 units of 155 mm howitzers.}}</ref>

In April 2024, it was reported that the [[Ministry of Defence (Vietnam)|Vietnam Ministry of National Defence]] has officially outlined the K9 procurement plan to its [[Ministry of National Defense (South Korea)|South Korean counterpart]], with Korean officials willingly support the deal. 108 units was mentioned as the potential number.<ref name=":1" />

===Failed bids===

====Denmark====
The K9 Thunder participated in a bid against Nexter Systems' [[CAESAR self-propelled howitzer#CAESAR 8x8|CAESAR 8x8]] and [[Soltam Systems]] [[ATMOS 2000]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.heraldcorp.com/view.php?ud=20161025000595 |title=韓ㆍ덴마크 정상회담, K-9 자주포 방산협력 논의 |publisher=[[Herald Corporation]] |date=2016-10-25}}</ref> In March 2017, the Danish military announced it had selected the competing CAESAR 8x8 instead.

In January 2023, Denmark requested Hanwha Aerospace, Nexter Systems, and [[Lockheed Martin]] to submit a proposal to fill up the gap created by the donation of entire fleet of CAESAR 8x8 to Ukraine, which Lockheed Martin refused by offering a high cost. However, Denmark leveraged the situation to make ongoing negotiations in favor of [[Elbit Systems]]. On 25 January, Denmark made an agreement with Elbit Systems to purchase ATMOS 2000 and [[PULS (multiple rocket launcher)|PULS]] (Precise and Universal Launching System), and signed the contract in March without notifying anything to Hanwha and Nexter despite Denmark being the requester.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dr.dk/nyheder/politik/dansk-agent-om-vaabenkoeb-jeg-forsoegte-forgaeves-aflevere-tilbud-om-genvej-til|title=Dansk agent om våbenkøb: Jeg forsøgte forgæves at aflevere tilbud om genvej til sydkoreanske kanoner|publisher=[[DR (broadcaster)|Danish Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=11 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230811053029/https://www.dr.dk/nyheder/politik/dansk-agent-om-vaabenkoeb-jeg-forsoegte-forgaeves-aflevere-tilbud-om-genvej-til|archive-date=11 August 2023|access-date=11 August 2023|author=Mads Korsager Nielsen and Mette Pabst}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-10 |script-title=ko:우크라이나 무기 지원한 덴마크, 한화 K9 자주포 구애 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=58274 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-11 |script-title=ko:덴마크 국방장관, 이스라엘 무기 도입 공식사과...한화 K9 자주포 다시 기회 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=58302 |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>

====United Arab Emirates====
The UAE failed to acquire K9s due to German arms restrictions on the use of the MT 881 Ka-500 diesel engines, according to a South Korean MOFA official.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://independent.ng/uae-k9-howitzer-acquisition-frozen-under-arms-embargo/ | title=UAE K9 Howitzer Acquisition Frozen Under Arms Embargo – Independent Newspaper Nigeria | date=9 July 2020 }}</ref>

====United Kingdom====
In September 2021, Hanwha Defense launched Team Thunder joined by [[Leonardo S.p.A.|Leonardo UK]] (navigation, FCS, electronics), [[Pearson plc|Pearson Engineering]] (manufacturing), Horstman (suspension), and Soucy Defense (track) to participate in the Mobile Fires Platform (MFP) program, starting in late 2023 to replace Britain's [[AS90]] with a K9A2 variant.<ref name="UK MFP">{{cite news|url=https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2021/06/02/skoreas-hanwha-pitches-k9-howitzer-for-british-mobile-fires-program/ |title=SKorea's Hanwha pitches K9 howitzer for British mobile fires program |publisher=Defense News |date=2021-06-02}}</ref> The team expanded as [[Lockheed Martin UK]] (turret & autoloader) joined Team Thunder in March 2022.<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2022-03-23 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, K9 자주포 영국 수출 위한 '팀 썬더' 협력 확대 |url=https://biz.chosun.com/industry/company/2022/03/23/ELZM4FZU55EUTM72CHLHV3DUAM/ |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[ChosunBiz]] |language=ko}}</ref> The K9A2 was first revealed in the United Kingdom during Defense Vehicle Dynamics 2022 at UTAC [[Millbrook Proving Ground]] in September 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-22 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 영국서 최신형 K9자주포 공개 |url=https://www.g-enews.com/article/Industry/2022/09/2022092216595167814fb262fcb_1 |access-date=2022-09-28 |website=[[Global Economic (newspaper)|Global Economic]] |language=ko}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |title=K9A2 Self-Propelled Howitzer at Millbrook Proving Ground, UK | date=23 September 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oD19fa1viTk |language=en |access-date=2022-09-28}}</ref><ref name="K9 UK partners interview">{{Citation |script-title=ko:록히드마틴이 K9 자주포를 만든다? '팀 썬더' 영국 현지 취재! 레오나르도, 피어슨 엔지니어링, 수시 디펜스! 다 보고 왔습니다! l K-방산 팩트체크 6편 [프파S] | date=15 November 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O55lkhLjkQ0 |language=en |access-date=2022-12-05}}</ref>

In March 2023, the United Kingdom purchased 14 [[Archer Artillery System|Archers]] from Swedish inventory to fill the gap after transferring 32 AS90s to Ukraine. Archer is one of the competitors of the MFP.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chuter |first=Andrew |date=2023-03-16 |title=British Army buys 14 Archer howitzers to fill gap left by Ukraine aid |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2023/03/16/british-army-buys-14-archer-howitzers-to-fill-gap-left-by-ukraine-aid/ |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref>

[[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|British Ministry of Defense]] requested the Team Thunder to conduct tests on CRT with K9A2 technology demonstrator.<ref>{{Cite web |last=tf.co.kr |date=2023-07-08 |script-title=ko:한화에어로, '복합 고무궤도 장착' K9 자주포 시험 주행...게임체인저될까? |url=https://news.tf.co.kr/read/ptoday/2029245.htm |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=더팩트 |language=ko}}</ref>

On 24 April 2024, the UK announced its selection of the [[RCH 155]] for the British Army's Mobile Fires Platform programme, as a successor for the [[AS-90]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chuter |first=Andrew |date=2023-12-11 |title=Babcock, Rheinmetall UK join BAE push for British Army's howitzer |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2023/12/11/babcock-rheinmetall-uk-join-bae-push-for-british-armys-howitzer/ |access-date=2024-03-18 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Britain to purchase Boxer-based RCH155 artillery systems |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-to-purchase-boxer-based-rch155-artillery-systems/ |access-date=24 April 2024 |work=[[UK Defence Journal]] |date=24 April 2024}}</ref> The vehicles will be built in both Germany and the UK with over 100 UK-based suppliers manufacturing components.<ref>{{cite news |title=PM: UK and Germany open 'new chapter' in defence partnership |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-uk-and-germany-open-new-chapter-in-defence-partnership |access-date=24 April 2024 |work=[[GOV.UK]] |date=24 April 2024}}</ref> The platform will consist of the Remote-Controlled Howitzer 155mm (RCH 155) weapon module fitted to the rear half of the [[Boxer (armoured fighting vehicle)|Boxer]] mechanised infantry vehicle (MIV) and will be in service with the [[Royal Artillery]] by the end of the decade.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Richard |date=2024-04-24 |title=German RCH 155 artillery selected for British Army's Mobile Fires Platform |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/german-rch-155-artillery-selected-for-british-armys-mobile-fires-platform/ |access-date=2024-04-24 |website=Army Technology |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Variants and upgrades==
* '''XK9:''' experimental prototype. 2 built
* '''K9 Thunder:''' the first-production variant for the [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces]]
** '''[[T-155 Fırtına]] (Storm):''' Turkish variant of the K9. Manufactured by [[Turkish Land Forces]] with subsystems from South Korea. The turret is modified to store 30 ammunition instead of 32 while increasing hull stored ammunition from 16 to 18.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Toper |first=Ezgi |title=What you need to know about Türkiye's self-propelled Firtina II howitzers |url=https://www.trtworld.com/turkey/Ezgi%20Toper |access-date=2023-05-21 |website=What you need to know about Türkiye's self-propelled Firtina II howitzers |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The vehicle has APU installed, but lacks panoramic scope for manual firing
*** '''Gürhan:''' hybrid engine test vehicle of the T-155
*** '''T-155 Fırtına 2''': Turkish upgrade of the T-155 Fırtına
* '''K9 PIP (Product Improvement Program)''': K9 upgrade plan by South Korea, noticeably adding APU and better FCS. The upgrade later evolved to the K9A1 with more modifications.
** '''AS9 "Aussie Thunder":''' offered Australian variant for the LAND 17 program. It featured enhanced FCS, BMS-F, RWS, anti-tank mine protection, and suspension upgrade to support increased weight.
** '''PK9:''' a modified K9 chassis used to produce Polish [[AHS Krab]] self-propelled howitzer. License produced by [[Huta Stalowa Wola]].
** '''K9 Vajra-T (Lightning):''' Indian variant of the K9. Manufactured by [[Larsen & Toubro]] under license with 50% Indian components. It is customized for desert and alpine operations, and is the first variant to equip [[Safran]] MINEO DFSS, a dedicated gunner's sight for direct firing capability similar to main battle tanks.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/army-inducts-new-artillery-guns-after-three-decades/article25452662.ece|title=Army fire power gets booster shot|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2018-11-09|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-01-20|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name="MINEO DFSS">{{Cite web |date=2022-10-05 |script-title=ko:한화 '호주 자주포 사업'에 프랑스 사프란 가세 |url=http://www.theguru.co.kr/news/article.html?no=43116 |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=www.theguru.co.kr |language=ko}}</ref>
** '''K9FIN Moukari (Sledge-hammer):''' Finnish variant of the K9 transferred from the Republic of Korea Army inventory after overhaul and upgrades. Finnish modifications were performed by Millog.
** '''K9EST Kõu (Thunder):''' Estonian variant of the K9 transferred from the Republic of Korea Army inventory after overhaul and upgrades. Estonian modifications were performed by Go Craft.
** '''K9A1:''' First enhanced variant for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, and is in service since 2018. All K9s operated by South Korea will be upgraded to A1 or future variant by 2030.
*** '''K9 VIDAR (versatile indirect artillery system) (Batch I):''' Norwegian variant of the K9A1 with Norwegian subsystems and increased protection by installing spall liner. Uses Safran MINEO DFSS for direct firing.<ref name="MINEO DFSS"/>
**** '''K9 VIDAR (Batch II):''' second production batch of the K9 VIDAR. It has visible changes such as driver's optics.
**** '''AS9 Huntsman:''' Australian variant of the K9 VIDAR with additional armor package and enhanced suspension. New hull design is similar to the [[K21#Future development|AS21 Redback]].<ref name="AS9">{{cite news| url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/special-reports/huntsman-howitzers-action-ready-by-2023/news-story/b1e22c946f436d76586641b41e06792c |title=Huntsman howitzers action ready by 2023 |publisher=The Weekend Australian |date=2021-06-01}}</ref>
***** '''K9 Tunet:''' Romanian variant, will feature the "most modern technical specifications" of the K9. No further information available.<ref name="defenseromania 2024-05-02" />
*** '''K9A1EGY:''' Egyptian variant of the K9A1. Will be produced under license in Egypt.
*** '''K9PL (Batch I):''' Polish variant of the K9A1. Equipped with the Polish network system and fire control system. First 48 secondhand vehicles are known as '''K9GF'''.
**** '''K9PL (Batch II):''' enhanced variant of the Batch I with 13 additional systems.<ref name="K9GF"/>
* '''K9A2:''' second enhanced variant for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. 1 prototype built and shown to the public in 2022, and is in development. Also known as K9A2 Block-I to differentiate from 58 caliber variant.
** '''K9A2 Block-II:''' 155&nbsp;mm 58 caliber variant of K9A2. Proposal stage only.
* '''K9A3:''' fully automated and unmanned K9A2. Under development.<ref name="salesperson interview" />
<hr/>
* '''[[K10 ammunition resupply vehicle|K10 ARV]] (ammunition resupply vehicle):''' automatic resupplying vehicle for the K9 based on the same platform
** '''K10 VIDAR (versatile indirect artillery system):''' Norwegian variant of the K10
** '''K10EGY''': Egyptian variant of the K10
** '''K10 AARV (armored ammunition resupply vehicle):''' enhanced protection variant of the K10 ARV
*** '''AS10:''' Australian variant of the K10 AARV – similar configuration to the AS9<ref name="AS9" />
*** '''AS10C2:''' suggested protected command & control post variant based on the AS10
<hr/>
* '''K11 FDCV (fire direction control vehicle):''' fire direction control vehicle based on the K10
** '''K11EGY''': Egyptian variant of the K11 with anti-ship mission capability added
* '''K11A1''': enhanced variant of the K11. It remotely operates up to three K9A3 howitzers and is armed with the RCWS, anti-air missile launchers, and additional armor plate for mine protection.

==Operators==
[[File:K9 operators.svg|thumb|400px|A map of operators of the K9 Thunder or its variants]]

===Current operators===
{{flag|Australia}} – 2 '''AS9 Huntsman''' and 1 '''AS10 AARV''' delivered as of January 2025.
* South Korea produces two AS9 and one AS10.
* Australia will build 28 AS9 and 14 AS10 under license at Geelong.<ref>{{cite web|last=남 |first=효정|date=2021-12-13|title=K-9 자주포 호주 수출 계약‥9천억 원 규모|url=https://imnews.imbc.com/replay/2021/nw1200/article/6323442_34908.html|access-date=2021-12-13|website=[[MBC News]]|language=ko}}</ref>

{{flag|Egypt}} – The [[Egyptian Army]] completed tests of the SMV1000 engine and is installing production lines. Currently has 1 '''K9A1''' and 1 '''K10''' in possession.<ref name="Janes 2023-10-26" /><ref name="Egypt quantity"/><ref name="egypt engine"/>
* Egypt placed an order for 216 '''K9A1EGY''', 39 '''K10EGY''', and 51 '''K11''' in February 2022.<ref name="Egypt Engine"/> Production starts in 2022 Q4 at Hanwha Defense in South Korea.<ref name="K9 Egypt export" /><ref name="Yonhap1" /><ref name="Egypt quantity"/>

{{flag|Estonia}} – 24 '''K9EST Kõu''' in service in the [[Estonian Land Forces]]. 12 more on order. 24 vehicles received modification as of July 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kersti |date=2024-07-16 |title=Go Craft lõpetas viimase K9 Kõu liikursuurtüki eestindamise |url=https://gogroup.ee/go-craft-lopetas-viimase-k9-kou-liikursuurtuki-eestindamise/ |access-date=2024-09-03 |website=AS Go Group |language=et}}</ref>
* Estonia placed an order for 12 used K9 with an option for 12 additional systems in June 2018.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kund |first1=Oliver |title=Uus tulejõud lisab kaitseväele rammu |url=https://www.postimees.ee/4509552/uus-tulejoud-lisab-kaitsevaele-rammu |website=www.postimees.ee |access-date=2018-06-26 |language=et |date=2018-06-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180626015751/https://www.postimees.ee/4509552/uus-tulejoud-lisab-kaitsevaele-rammu |archive-date=2018-06-26 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Vahtla |first1=Aili |title=Gallery: Estonia, South Korea sign artillery purchase agreement |url=https://news.err.ee/842341/gallery-estonia-south-korea-sign-artillery-purchase-agreement |website=news.err.ee |publisher=ERR |access-date=2018-06-26 |date=2018-06-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180626164043/https://news.err.ee/842341/gallery-estonia-south-korea-sign-artillery-purchase-agreement |archive-date=2018-06-26 |url-status=live }}</ref> Estonia exercised an option for 6 additional howitzers in October 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.err.ee/987854/paper-more-military-equipment-to-be-bought-from-south-korea|title=Paper: More military equipment to be bought from South Korea|last=ERR|first=ERR News {{!}}|date=2019-10-03|website=ERR|language=en|access-date=2019-10-03}}</ref> Deliveries began in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ERR |first=BNS, ERR News, ERR {{!}} |date=2021-11-20 |title=Conscripts get first-hand experience in K9 Thunder live-firing exercise |url=https://news.err.ee/1608409691/conscripts-get-first-hand-experience-in-k9-thunder-live-firing-exercise |access-date=2022-07-25 |website=ERR |language=en}}</ref> Estonia received a total of 24 vehicles as of December 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ERR |first=ERR {{!}} |date=2023-12-17 |title=Gallery: Another six K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers arrive in Estonia |url=https://news.err.ee/1609197121/gallery-another-six-k9-thunder-self-propelled-howitzers-arrive-in-estonia |access-date=2023-12-18 |website=ERR |language=en}}</ref>

{{flag|Finland}} – 48 '''K9FIN Moukari''' in service in the [[Finnish Army]]. 48 more on order. 24 vehicles received modification as of October 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=Millog tekee kansallisia muutostöitä Puolustusvoimien käyttöön tuleville K9-panssarihaupitseille |url=https://millog.fi/millog-tekee-kansallisia-muutostoita-puolustusvoimien-kayttoon-tuleville-k9-panssarihaupitseille/ |access-date=2023-12-21 |website=Millog |language=fi}}</ref> All (96) purchased vehicles are scheduled for modification by 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Puolustusvoimat hankkii 155 K9 panssarihaupitsien kansallisia muutostöitä |url=https://www.defmin.fi/ajankohtaista/tiedotteet_ja_uutiset/puolustusvoimat_hankkii_155_k9_panssarihaupitsien_kansallisia_muutostoita.14184.news |access-date=2024-02-24 |website=Puolustusministeriö |language=fi}}</ref>
* Finland placed an order for 48 used K9s with an option for 48 additional systems in March 2017.<ref>[https://www.is.fi/kotimaa/art-2000005092507.html Suomi hankkii 48 käytettyä panssarihaupitsia Etelä-Koreasta]  iltasanomat.fi, 17 February 2017.</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Larrinaga, de |first1=Nicholas |title=Finland buys K9 howitzers from South Korea |url=http://www.janes.com/article/67827/ |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=18 February 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170218122710/http://www.janes.com/article/67827/finland-buys-k9-howitzers-from-south-korea |archive-date=18 February 2017 |location=London |date=18 February 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref> 10 additional units were ordered in 2021 and 2022. 38 more ordered in 2022, using full option contract signed in 2017.

{{flag|India}} – 100 '''K9 Vajra-T''' in service in the [[Indian Army]], with 100 more on order.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Індія уклала великий контракт на гаубиці K9 |url=https://mil.in.ua/uk/news/indiya-uklala-velykyj-kontrakt-na-gaubytsi-k9/ |access-date=2024-12-28 |website=Мілітарний. Чесні новини про армію, війну та оборону. |language=uk}}</ref>

{{flag|Norway}} – 28 '''K9 VIDAR''' and 14 '''K10 VIDAR''' in service in the [[Norwegian Army]] as of February 2025.
* Norway initially placed an order for 24 K9 VIDARs and 6 K10 VIDARs, to replace the [[M109 howitzer|M109A3GNM]], with an option for another 24 K9 and additional K10. First deliveries took place in 2019.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Yeo|first1=Mike|title=Norway orders K9 howitzers in latest win for South Korean arms industry|url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2017/12/20/norway-orders-k9-howitzers-in-latest-win-for-south-korean-arms-industry/|website=Defense News|access-date=26 December 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171220162835/https://www.defensenews.com/land/2017/12/20/norway-orders-k9-howitzers-in-latest-win-for-south-korean-arms-industry/|archive-date=20 December 2017|location=Melbourne|date=20 December 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Grevatt|first1=Jon|title=Hanwha confirms K9 export to Norway|url=http://www.janes.com/article/76637|website=IHS Jane's 360|access-date=26 December 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171226214449/http://www.janes.com/article/76637/hanwha-confirms-k9-export-to-norway|archive-date=26 December 2017|date=22 December 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Erlien Dalløkken|first1=Per|title=Nå er det klart: Dette blir Norges nye artilleri|url=https://www.tu.no/artikler/na-er-det-klart-dette-blir-norges-nye-artilleri/414850|website=Teknisk Ukeblad|access-date=26 December 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171226213704/https://www.tu.no/artikler/na-er-det-klart-dette-blir-norges-nye-artilleri/414850|archive-date=26 December 2017|language=no|date=20 December 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> Another 4 K9 and 8 K10 were ordered in November 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pettersen |first=Stephan |date=2022-11-07 |title=Hæren får fire nye k9 artillerivogner |url=https://forsvaretsforum.no/artilleri-forsvaret-forsvarsmateriell/haeren-far-fire-nye-k9-artillerivogner/293538 |access-date=2022-12-02 |website=forsvaretsforum.no |language=nb-no}}</ref>

{{flag|Poland}} – 132 (August 2024) '''PK9''' produced for '''AHS Krab'''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-01 |title=Key Deadlines for the Polish Army Krab Systems Procurement Unveiled |url=https://defence24.com/armed-forces/land-forces/key-deadlines-for-the-polish-army-krab-systems-procurement-unveiled |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=defence24.com |language=pl}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-08-13 |title=Krab grzmi w rejonie Kurska. Polska broń widoczna w Ukrainie |url=https://defence24.pl/wojna-na-ukrainie-raport-specjalny-defence24/krab-grzmi-w-rejonie-kurska-polska-bron-widoczna-w-ukrainie |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=defence24.pl |language=pl}}</ref> and 174 (June 2025) '''K9PL''' (Batch I)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tegoroczne dostawy sprzętu wojskowego z Korei Południowej |url=https://dziennikzbrojny.pl/aktualnosci/news,1,12148,aktualnosci-z-polski,tegoroczne-dostawy-sprzetu-wojskowego-z-korei-poludniowej |access-date=2025-06-05 |website=DziennikZbrojny.pl |language=pl}}</ref> were delivered for the [[Polish Land Forces]].
* PK9: 120 will be produced as part of the [[AHS Krab]] program. 24 were built in Korea, and 96 are produced under license in Poland.<ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/december_2014_global_defense_security_news_uk/samsung_techwin_signs_deal_for_delivering_120_k9_thunder_self-propelled_howitzers_to_poland.html Samsung Techwin signs deal for delivering 120 K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers to Poland] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923180802/http://www.armyrecognition.com/december_2014_global_defense_security_news_uk/samsung_techwin_signs_deal_for_delivering_120_k9_thunder_self-propelled_howitzers_to_poland.html |date=2015-09-23 }} armyrecognition.com, 17 December 2014.</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Grevatt|first1=Jon|title=South Korea's Hanwha secures Polish K9 export|url=http://www.janes.com/article/66310/|website=IHS Jane's 360|access-date=16 December 2016|location=Bangkok|date=16 December 2016}}</ref> 48 additional Krabs were ordered by Poland,<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-09-05 |title=Poland to order 48 Krab howitzers for nearly $800 mln |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/poland-order-48-krab-howitzers-nearly-800-mln-2022-09-05/ |access-date=2023-05-29}}</ref> and 54 were ordered by Ukraine in 2022. 96 ordered in December 2024.
* K9PL: Poland ordered 212 K9PL (B1) in August 2022.<ref name="K9A1 Poland" /> Another 6 K9PL (B1) and 146 K9PL (B2) ordered in December 2023. All vehicles are expected to be delivered by 2027.<ref>{{Cite web  |title=Hanwha Aerospace to export more K9 howitzer to Poland |url=https://www.kedglobal.com/aerospace-defense/newsView/ked202312040004 |access-date=2023-12-05 |website=[[The Korea Economic Daily]] |language=en}}</ref>

{{flag|Republic of Korea}} – An estimated 1,090 '''K9'''/'''K9A1''' and 450 '''K10''' are in service in the [[Republic of Korea Army]] and the [[Republic of Korea Marine Corps]] as of December 2023.
* 1,136 K9 (1998–2017, Batch I-X)<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=ko:신형 자주포 'K9' 1000여개 늘린다 |url=https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2009062201071027026002 |access-date=2023-12-07 |website=[[Munhwa Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref> and 74 (estimate) K9A1 (Dec 2017–2019, Batch XI)<ref>{{Cite web |last=남 |first=희헌 |date=2018-01-02 |script-title=ko:한화테크윈 자회사 한화지상방산, K9자주포 등 4700억 일감 따내 |url=https://www.businesspost.co.kr/BP?command=article_view&num=68529 |access-date=2023-12-07 |website=비즈니스포스트}}</ref> were produced. An estimated more than 450 K10s (2006–2019, Batch I-VI) were produced for the Republic of Korea Army and the Republic of Korea Marine Corps.{{notetag|The Republic of Korea Armed Forces did not release the accurate number of vehicles in possession. However, based on the press release by STX Engine on 9 August 2017, a total of 2,100 engines were delivered or being produced, and 333 pieces among those went to Turkey and Poland.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-08-09 |title=STX엔진소식 대규모 방산 수주 |url=http://www.stxengine.co.kr/kor/html/pr/news/news_view.aspx?mode=view&listurl=/kor/html/pr/news/news_list.aspx&seq=473&lang=kor&startIndex=0&search=on&cond=All&key=k10 |website=STX Engine}}</ref> The rest of 1,667 engines (or 1,767 if Indian volume is not included for count) were provided to South Korea and used for K9 Batch I-X (approx 1,136) and as replacements, which results an estimated 450 K10s being built during Batch I-V production. For comparison, South Korean military also plans to operate 1,180 K55A1s and 520–700 K56 ARVs.}} In November 2020, all vehicles were in full operational capability.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/hanwha-defense-completes-k9-sph-deliveries-to-south-korean-military|title=Hanwha Defense completes K9 SPH deliveries to South Korean military|last1=Dominguez|first1=Gabriel|last2=Kim|first2=Dae Young|date=13 November 2020|website=[[Jane's Information Group]]|access-date=27 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210327223137/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/hanwha-defense-completes-k9-sph-deliveries-to-south-korean-military|archive-date=27 March 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>
* All K9s are in the process of upgrading to K9A1 or a future variant. As of February 2022, at least 200 were upgraded to A1 by Army CMD out of 600 planned.<ref name="CMD 2022"/><ref name="600 K9A1"/> Rest will be upgraded to the K9A2.
* 120 K9/K9A1 were sold to foreign nations from Korean inventory as of December 2023.
* The Republic of Korea Army plans to produce 889 K9A3s to replace aging K55A1s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Military Review Easy 2412 |url=https://epreview.yes24.com/preview/viewer/viewer.html?ebookcode=1961831&dm=yes24.com |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=epreview.yes24.com}}</ref>

{{flag|Turkey}} – 280 '''T-155 Fırtına I''' in service in the [[Turkish Land Forces]].
* The Turkish Land Forces produced 281 [[T-155 Fırtına|T-155 Fırtına I]]. Turkey originally sought to manufacture 350 (280 for domestic use and 70 for exports) by 2011. Germany's veto on export of Korean licensed MTU engines via Turkey prevented the export of T-155 as well.<ref name="Turkey Sales" /> 
* 140 T-155 '''Fırtına II''' (new generation) have been ordered by the Turkish Army, and deliveries started in January 2021 with 3 Fırtına II used for the trials, 6 more were delivered in January 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Toper |first=Ezgi |title=What you need to know about Türkiye's self-propelled Firtina II howitzers |url=https://www.trtworld.com/turkey/Ezgi%20Toper |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=What you need to know about Türkiye's self-propelled Firtina II howitzers |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=July 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

===Future operators===
{{flag|Romania}} – Contract signed.
* On 10 July 2024, Hanwha Aerospace signed a [[South Korean won|₩]]1.3 trillion contract with the [[Ministry of National Defence (Romania)|Romanian Ministry of Defense]] to supply 54 '''K9 Tunet''' self-propelled howitzers and 36 '''K10 ARVs''', including ammunition and support equipment packages.<ref name="Joongang Daily 2024-07-10" />

=== K9 User Club ===
Since 2022, users of the K9 howitzer have held an annual conference in three working group sessions: operation, education, and maintenance. Military officials from participating countries are expected to introduce various experiences and know-how gained during K9 operations and share the optimized operation method of the howitzer. In addition, representatives of the defense industry partners of K9 from both member and non-member countries attended the meeting to introduce advanced technologies and discuss potential cooperation. Its goal is to operate the howitzer at maximum efficiency and to create synergy in the defense industry through cooperation.<ref name="Australia Factory 1">{{cite web|date=2022-02-23|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 호주 아발론공항에 대규모 자주포 생산시설 부지로 확정...3만2000 m<sup>2</sup> 규모|url=http://www.worktoday.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=22705|access-date=2022-02-23|website=워크투데이|language=ko}}</ref><ref name="Australia Factory 2">{{cite web|date=2022-02-23|script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 호주에 대규모 자주포 생산시설 부지 확정|url=http://www.newslock.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=53398|access-date=2022-02-23|website=뉴스락|language=ko}}</ref>

{| class=wikitable
|+ K9 User Club conferences
! 
! Year
! Host
! Participating members
! Observers
|-
| 1
| 2022<ref>{{Cite web  |date=2022-05-02 |script-title=ko:한화디펜스, 'K9 도입' 4개국 초청... 각국 운용 노하우 공유 |url=https://biz.chosun.com/industry/company/2022/05/02/Y77SZ6NM5RFHVEEOX7D3AFYOT4/ |access-date=2022-06-05 |website=[[ChosunBiz]] |language=ko}}</ref>
| {{KOR}}
| {{AUS}}, {{EST}}, {{FIN}}, {{NOR}}
|
|-
| 2
| 2023<ref>{{Cite web |last=구 |first=자윤 |date=2023-02-13 |script-title=ko:캐나다, 한화에어로 K9 자주포에 관심... 수출 이어지나 |url=https://www.fnnews.com/news/202302131838278760 |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=[[The Financial News]] |language=ko-KR}}</ref>
| {{NOR}}
| {{AUS}}, {{EST}}, {{FIN}}, {{POL}}, {{KOR}}
| {{CAN}}
|-
| 3
| 2024<ref>{{Cite web |title=K9 구매 6개국 유저클럽 핀란드서 모였다‥"세계 자주포시장 점유율 절반" |url=https://www.munhwa.com/news/view.html?no=2024012601039930114004 |access-date=2024-02-04 |website=[[Munhwa Ilbo]] |language=ko}}</ref>
| {{FIN}}
| {{AUS}}, {{EST}}, {{NOR}}, {{POL}}, {{KOR}}
| {{USA}}
|-
| 4
| 2025<ref>{{Cite web |title=W Krakowie rozpoczęła się dzisiaj IV edycja Klubu Użytkowników armatohaubic K9, produkowanych przez Hanwha Aerospace. |url=https://x.com/HanwhaEurope/status/1909556026602381372 |access-date=2025-04-08 |website=Hanwha Aerospace Europe|language=pl}}</ref>
| {{POL}}
| {{AUS}}, {{EST}}, {{FIN}}, {{NOR}}, {{ROM}}, {{KOR}}
| {{SWE}}, {{USA}}
|-
|}

=== Potential operators ===
{{flag|Canada}}
* Korea has offered the K9 for the [[Canadian Army|Canadian Army's]] artillery modernization project.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Administrator |title=Flash News: South Korea Proposes K9 Howitzer as Alternative to US Artillery in Canada's Modernization Plan |url=https://armyrecognition.com/news/army-news/2025/flash-news-south-korea-proposes-its-k9-howitzer-as-replacement-for-us-artillery-in-canadas-modernization-plan |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=armyrecognition.com |language=en-gb}}</ref>

{{flag|Iraq}}
* On March 26, 2025, A delegation from the Iraqi Artillery, headed by Major General Walid Khalid, toured a Hanwha factory in South Korea to gain insights into its operations. The group received an in-depth briefing on the K9 artillery system, along with information on the K10 ammunition loading vehicle and the K11 command and fire control vehicle. The commander of the Iraqi artillery corps emphasized some of the characteristics and capabilities that the artillery requires to be present in order to increase the artillery corps' capabilities.

{{flag|Qatar}}
* Qatar has dispatched soldiers to K-AIC (Korea-Army International Course), an international training program organized by the ROK Armed Forces, to participate in K2 and K9 operational training courses.<ref name="YNA 2024-11-22">{{cite web|url=https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20241122050100504|title=K2전차·K9자주포 사격부터 정비까지…육군, 7개국 장병 교육|publisher=[[Yonhap News Agency]]|date=22 November 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241203114510/https://www.yna.co.kr/view/AKR20241122050100504|archivedate=3 December 2024|accessdate=3 December 2024|author1=Kim Cheol-seon}}</ref>

{{flag|United States}} – In evaluation
* At AUSA 2024, the US military mentioned its interest for a wheeled howitzer under the ''"mobile tactical cannon"'' capability. Several self-propelled howitzer will be evaluated, among which K9A2, the [[Archer artillery system|Archer]], the [[RCH 155]] on two vehicles, the [[Mowag Piranha IV#Piranha IV 10×10 RCH-155 – "Artillerie Wirkplattform und Wirkmittel 2026"|Piranha 10×10]] and the [[Boxer (armoured fighting vehicle)|Boxer]] and the [[SIGMA 155]] from Elbit Systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-16 |title=U.S. Army lässt sich fünf Kandidaten für zukünftiges Artilleriesystem vorführen |url=https://www.hartpunkt.de/u-s-army-laesst-sich-fuenf-kandidaten-fuer-zukuenftiges-artilleriesystem-vorfuehren/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |language=de-DE}}</ref> The system will be selected in 2026, and a contract for a certain number of cannons is planned for 2027. The systems mentioned include the [[Archer artillery system|Archer]] and the RCH 155.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=2024-10-15 |title=Why the Army is looking abroad to close a widening artillery gun gap |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2024/10/15/why-the-army-is-looking-abroad-to-close-a-widening-artillery-gun-gap/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=Defense News |language=en}}</ref>

{{VNM}} – In evaluation/negotiation. K-AIC participant.<ref name="YNA 2024-11-22" />
* Up to 108 units to replace older 122&nbsp;mm, 152&nbsp;mm and 155&nbsp;mm artillery units currently in service.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://armyrecognition.com/defense_news_april_2024_global_security_army_industry/vietnam_eyes_acquisition_of_south_korean_k9_self-propelled_howitzer.html | title=Vietnam Eyes Acquisition of South Korean K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer &#124; Defense News April 2024 Global Security army industry &#124; Defense Security global news industry army year 2024 &#124; Archive News year | newspaper=Army Recognition | date=26 April 2024 | author1=Thomas | archive-date=27 April 2024 | access-date=27 April 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427052628/https://armyrecognition.com/defense_news_april_2024_global_security_army_industry/vietnam_eyes_acquisition_of_south_korean_k9_self-propelled_howitzer.html | url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== Summary ===
{| class="wikitable"
| rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;width: 110px;border-left:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''Operators'''<br /><small>(June 2025)</small>
! rowspan="2" style="width: 75px;border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |Orders
! colspan="4" style="border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black" |Acquisition
! rowspan="2" style="width: 30px; border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |<small>Losses</small>
! rowspan="2" style="width: 50px; border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |In service
! rowspan="2" style="width: 250px; border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |Note

|-
| align="center" style="width: 90px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''<small>K9</small>'''
| align="center" style="width: 90px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''<small>[[T-155 Firtina|Firtina 2]]</small>'''<br />'''<small>[[AHS Krab]]</small>'''
| align="center" style="width: 100px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''<small>K9 PIP<br />K9A1</small>'''
| align="center" style="width: 30px; border-right:solid 2px black;background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''<small>K9A2</small>'''

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|South Korea}} [[Republic of Korea Army]] and [[Republic of Korea Marine Corps|Marine Corps]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>K9 (I-X)<br />1,136<hr>K9A1 (XI)<br />74 (-180)</small>
| align="center" |<small>1,136 - {{font color||#ADE2B8|320}} - {{font color||#ADE2B8|A}}<br />({{font color||#ADE2B8|-B}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>74 + {{font color||#ADE2B8|320}} + {{font color||#ADE2B8|A}} - {{font color||#FFE18B|120}}<br />({{font color||#FFE18B|-60}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>({{font color||#ADE2B8|+B}})</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>816 - A<hr>274 + A</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I-X: 1,136 K9 delivered. Upgrade to K9A1 in progress.<br />Batch XI: 74 K9A1 delivered.<br />A: K9 upgraded to K9A1 (after Feb 2022).<br />B: K9 upgraded to K9A2.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Turkey}} [[Turkish Land Forces]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Fırtına 1 (I)<br />281<hr>Fırtına 2 (II)<br />140</small>
| align="center" |<small>{{font color||#93FFEB|281}}<hr>—<br /></small>
| align="center" |<small><br />—<br /><hr>{{font color||#93FFEB|13}}<br />({{font color||#93FFEB|+127}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>1<hr>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>280<hr>13</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 281 T-155 delivered. 1 demolished in Syria.<ref>https://x.com/e_amyna/status/726140007837257728 {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref></small><br /><small>Batch II: 140 Firtina 2 ordered.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Poland}} [[Polish Land Forces]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>PK9 (I-III)<br />264 (-54)<hr>K9PL (I)<br />48 + 170<hr>K9PL (II)<br />146</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>24 + {{font color||#93FFEB|54}} - {{font color||#FFE18B|54}}<br />({{font color||#93FFEB|+186}})</small><hr><br />—<br /><hr><br />—<br />
| align="center" |<small><br />—<br /><hr>{{font color||#FFE18B|48}} + 126<br />(+44) ({{font color||#ADE2B8|-218}})<hr>0<br />(+146) ({{font color||#ADE2B8|+218}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>24<hr>174<hr>0</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 120 PK9 ordered, first 24 were produced in Korea. 54 transfered to [[Ukrainian Ground Forces]].<br />Batch II: 48 PK9 ordered.<br />Batch III: 96 PK9 ordered.<hr>Batch I: 48 refurbished K9A1 from [[Republic of Korea Army]] (K9GF). 170 new K9A1 from Korea (K9PL). All K9A1 will be upgraded to K9PL (II).<br />Batch II: 146 K9PL to be produced in Korea.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Finland}} [[Finnish Army]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Moukari (I-II)<br />96</small> 
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>{{font color||#FFE18B|48}} → {{font color||#ADE2B8|48}}<br />({{font color||#FFE18B|+48}}) → ({{font color||#ADE2B8|+48}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>48</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 48 refurbished K9A1 from [[Republic of Korea Army]].<br />Batch II: 48 refurbished K9A1 ordered.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|India}} [[Indian Army]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Vajra-T (I-II)<br />200</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>10 + {{font color||#93FFEB|90}}<br />({{font color||#93FFEB|+100}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>100</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: First 10 produced in Korea.<br />Batch II: 100 ordered.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|NOR}} [[Norwegian Army]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>VIDAR (I-II)<br />28</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>28</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>28</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 24 ordered with 6 K10s.<br/>Batch II: 4 ordered with 8 K10s.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Estonia}} [[Estonian Land Forces]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" | <small>Kõu (I-II)<br />36</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>{{font color||#FFE18B|24}} → {{font color||#ADE2B8|24}}<br />({{font color||#FFE18B|+12}}) → ({{font color||#ADE2B8|+12}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>24</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 24 refurbished K9A1 from [[Republic of Korea Army]].<br/>Batch II: 12 refurbished K9A1 ordered.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Australia}} [[Australian Army]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Huntsman<br />30</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>2<br/>({{font color||#93FFEB|+28}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>2</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 30 ordered, with the first two produced in Korea. 15 AS10s ordered, with the first one produced in Korea.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Egypt}} [[Egyptian Army]] and [[Egyptian Navy|Navy]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>K9A1EGY<br />216</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>({{font color||#93FFEB|+216}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>0</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 216 ordered with 39 K10EGYs and 51 K11s.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|Ukraine}} [[Ukrainian Ground Forces]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>PK9 (I)<br />54 + 54</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>{{font color||#FFE18B|54}} + {{font color||#93FFEB|54}}</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>33</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>75</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Aid: 54 received from [[Polish Land Forces]]. At least 33 destroyed and 6 damaged by Russian military.<sup><ref>{{Cite web |last=Oryx |title=Attack On Europe: Documenting Ukrainian Equipment Losses During The 2022 Russian Invasion Of Ukraine |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html |access-date=2023-09-20 |website=Oryx}}</ref></sup><br />Batch I: 54 PK9 ordered.</small>

|-
| style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black" |<small>{{flagicon|ROM}} [[Romanian Land Forces]]</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Tunet<br />54</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" |<small>(+18) ({{font color||#93FFEB|+36}})</small>
| align="center" |<small>—</small>
| align="center" style="border-left: solid 2px black;border-right: solid 2px black" |<small>—</small>
! align="center" style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>0</small>
| style="border-right:solid 2px black" |<small>Batch I: 54 ordered with 36 K10s. 18 K9s and 12 K10s will be produced in South Korea.</small>

|-
| rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''In service'''
| align="center" rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |<small>'''Total new orders<br />2,793'''</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 2px black" |<small>'''1,097 - A'''<br />(-B)</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 2px black" |<small>'''145'''<br />(+313)</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 2px black" |<small>'''650 + A'''<br />(+642)</small>
| align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 2px black" |<small>(+B)</small>
! rowspan="2" style="border-left:solid 2px black; border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |<small>'''34'''</small>
! rowspan="2" style="border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |'''1,858'''
| rowspan="2" style="border-right:solid 2px black;border-top:solid 2px black;border-bottom:solid 2px black" |<small>A: K9 upgraded to K9A1 for the ROK (after Feb 2022).<br />B: K9 upgraded to K9A2 for the ROK.</small>
|-
! colspan="4" style="border-bottom:solid 2px black" | <small>'''Total acquired: 1,892<br />To be manufactured: 955'''</small>
|}
'''''Legend of the colored numbers in the table''':''

{{legend|#FFFFFF|Systems assembled and produced in South Korea}}

{{legend|#93FFEB|Systems assembled or produced outside of South Korea}}

{{legend|#FFE18B|2nd hand sold/transferred [ - ] and bought/received [ + ]}}

{{legend|#ADE2B8|System upgraded, one variant to the other [ - ] / [ + ]}}

== See also ==
'''Related development'''
* {{lwc|T-155 Fırtına}}
* {{lwc|AHS Krab}}
* {{lwc|K10 ammunition resupply vehicle|K10 ARV}}
'''Vehicle of comparable role, performance, and era'''
* {{lwc|2S35 Koalitsiya-SV}}
* {{lwc|AS-90}}
* {{lwc|M109 howitzer#M109A6 "Paladin"|M109A6}}
* {{lwc|M1299 howitzer|M1299}}
* {{lwc|PLZ-05}}
* {{lwc|PLZ-45}}
* {{lwc|Panzerhaubitze 2000}}
* {{lwc|SSPH Primus}}
* {{lwc|Type 99 155 mm self-propelled howitzer|Type 99}}

== Notes ==
{{Notelist}}
{{NoteFoot}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{commons category|K9 Thunder}}
* [https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/eng/products/firearms-system-k9.do K9 Thunder Self-propelled Howitzer – Artillery Systems – Hanwha Defense] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129125931/https://www.hanwha-defense.co.kr/eng/products/firearms-system-k9.do |date=29 November 2020 }}
* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/k9.htm Global Security on K-9 Howitzer]
* [http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4425860 Defense News]{{dead link|date=January 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}

[[Category:Self-propelled artillery of South Korea]]
[[Category:155 mm artillery]]
[[Category:Tracked self-propelled howitzers]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of South Korea]]
[[Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1990s]]
[[Category:ADD research and development projects]]