As part of the broad process of modernization of its defense capabilities, the Egyptian Armed Forces received the first batch of K9A1 EGY Thunder 155mm self-propelled howitzers, manufactured locally at the so-called “Factory 200,” located on the outskirts of the city of Cairo. This milestone reflects the progress of industrial and technological cooperation between Egypt and South Korea, consolidating the transfer of knowledge and the national production of state-of-the-art artillery systems, adapted to the operational needs of the North African country.
The K9 Thunder, developed by the South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace, has established itself in recent decades as one of the most advanced and widely used self-propelled howitzers in the world. Currently in service with the armed forces of South Korea, India, Turkey, Poland, Finland, and Norway, its success lies in its firepower, reliability, and ability to operate in multiple environments. With a range of up to 40 kilometers and a rate of between six and eight rounds per minute, the system features a modern automated fire control and meets NATO artillery standards.
The agreement signed between Egypt and South Korea in 2022, valued at 1.7 billion dollars, provides for the acquisition of hundreds of K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers and contemplates local production under license, along with the delivery of K10 ammunition resupply vehicles and K11 command and control vehicles. One of the unique features of the contract is that a large portion of the systems will be destined for the Egyptian Navy, which will employ them in coastal defense missions and attacks on naval targets. This is also the first time Hanwha has developed a version of the K9 specifically adapted for a naval force.
Within the framework of this cooperation, Hanwha Aerospace confirmed that the future K9A1 EGY will be equipped with a locally developed engine manufactured in South Korea, the result of joint work with STX Engine. This new 1,000-horsepower diesel engine replaces the traditional German-origin MTU 881 Ka-500, offering better performance and technological autonomy. During its validation process, the engine was subjected to demanding tests in desert and mountainous environments, completing more than 10,000 kilometers of travel.
The incorporation of the K9A1 EGY Thunder reinforces the artillery capability of the Egyptian Armed Forces and marks a decisive step toward technological independence in defense matters. With the local production of the new howitzers and the integration of South Korean technology, the country consolidates its position as a key actor in the regional military industry, boosting its deterrence capability and projecting Egypt as a future center for the production and maintenance of K9 systems in North Africa and the Middle East.
*Images used for illustrative purposes.
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