South Korea demonstrates K9A3 unmanned self-propelled howitzer concept
The South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace has presented a new modification of the K9 Thunder self-propelled artillery system - the unmanned version K9A3. The system will be able to operate autonomously or remotely.
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The system will be either completely unmanned or with optional crew participation. The company notes that the K9A3 is designed to meet future needs on the battlefield - it is highly automated, has increased survivability and is capable of operating under new operational doctrines.
The new K9A3 will be equipped with a 155 mm cannon with a barrel length of 58 calibres instead of 52 in the previous version, which will increase the range of fire to 80 km when using high-precision ammunition. The turret will be equipped with a remotely controlled 12.7mm machine gun to destroy both ground and air targets, including drones.
The K9A3 is likely to be targeted not only at the domestic market. Hanwha Defence has already announced plans to establish a centre in Romania to support the production, maintenance and repair of howitzers. As a reminder, Romania signed a contract for the purchase of K9 Thunder in 2024.
"Our priority is to supply K9 and K10, but we already have several of these vehicles in NATO and Europe, so the idea is to be able to produce components, carry out maintenance and repair here in Romania," the company said.
Source: Hanwha Aerospace
