During its participation in the AUSA 2025 International Exhibition, South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace, together with Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA), presented a wide range of defense solutions aimed at supporting the modernization of the U.S. Army’s artillery capabilities. Among these, the highlight was the introduction of the K9A2 Wheeled Howitzer, a new concept of a wheeled self-propelled howitzer equipped with an automatic loading system, showcased to the public for the first time at the Washington, D.C. event.
The presentation of the wheeled K9A2 marks a step forward in the evolutionary development of the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer, which is currently operated by more than ten countries and is regarded as one of the most combat-proven artillery platforms in the world. The new version integrates the K9A2’s automated turret onto an 8×8 armored chassis, providing greater flexibility, mobility, and ease of deployment on the battlefield.
According to Maro Kim, Director of Strategy at Hanwha Defense USA, “The K9 howitzer is already operated by more than ten nations and has established itself as the most combat-proven self-propelled artillery system in the world. By mounting the automated turret of the K9A2 on an 8×8 platform, we can meet the U.S. Army’s requirements for long-range precision fires, rapid deployment, and sustained resupply operations.”
The integrated automatic loading system allows the firing rate to increase from six to over nine rounds per minute, reducing crew intervention and enhancing efficiency during extended operations. This advancement is aimed at meeting the U.S. Army’s demand for systems with greater range, precision, and mobility, in line with its ongoing artillery modernization efforts.
In addition to exhibiting the K9A2, Hanwha also presented its project to localize production of the 155 mm Modular Charge System (MCS) within the United States. This system, manufactured through automated processes in a “smart factory” environment, offers high precision, safety, and compatibility with NATO-standard 155 mm artillery systems. Its ability to accurately control chamber pressure and range ensures superior performance and high operational reliability.
The industrial localization plan seeks to strengthen the resilience of the U.S. and allied ammunition supply chains — a need made evident by the war in Ukraine and the rising global demand for 155 mm ammunition. Hanwha plans to develop local industrial partnerships to ensure the sustained production of components and modular charges in the United States, thereby contributing to logistical autonomy and the strengthening of the American defense ecosystem.
Photos: Zona Militar.
