K9 Thunder Howitzer

Full Specifications

K9 Thunder 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer

The K9 Thunder is a modern 155mm self-propelled howitzer designed to deliver fast, accurate, and sustained artillery fire in high-intensity combat. Built for maneuver warfare, it combines strong firepower with high mobility and crew protection, making it one of the most widely exported artillery systems in service today.

Overview and Development

Developed by Hanwha Defense of South Korea, the K9 Thunder entered service in the late 1990s to replace older tracked artillery systems. It was designed for rapid shoot-and-scoot operations, allowing units to fire missions quickly and relocate before enemy counter-battery fire. The system is optimized for joint and coalition operations, which has driven strong interest from U.S. allies.

Firepower and Performance

The K9 is armed with a 155mm L52 caliber cannon compatible with NATO-standard ammunition. It can engage targets at ranges exceeding 40 kilometers using extended-range projectiles. An automated fire control system enables rapid target acquisition and multiple round simultaneous impact missions, where several shells strike the target at the same time.

The howitzer can fire up to six rounds per minute in burst mode and sustain lower rates for extended missions. Ammunition handling is assisted, reducing crew workload and improving consistency under combat conditions.

Mobility and Protection

Powered by a 1,000 horsepower diesel engine, the K9 reaches road speeds of around 67 km per hour and keeps pace with armored formations. Its tracked chassis uses hydropneumatic suspension, allowing improved stability during firing and better performance on rough terrain.

Crew protection includes welded steel armor, NBC protection, automatic fire suppression, and smoke launchers. These features support survivability in contested environments.

Operational Use

The K9 Thunder is in service with several NATO and allied forces, including South Korea, Poland, Norway, Finland, and Australia. Its design aligns well with U.S. Army artillery concepts focused on long-range precision fires and rapid mobility.

K9 Thunder Howitzer Price

The unit cost of the K9 Thunder varies by configuration, local production, and support packages, but it is generally estimated at around USD 4 to 5 million per system.