Norway has ordered 24 more K9 VIDAR self-propelled howitzers from South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace, its third contract with the company.
The purchase will expand Oslo’s artillery fleet to 52 systems by 2027, following Hanwha’s continued alignment with the Norwegian Armed Forces’ “requirements for time, cost, and performance.”
“Efficient processes and good cooperation with Hanwha have been crucial in ensuring that delivery of the additional 24 K9 artillery systems is already planned for 2027,” said Gro Jære, director of the Norwegian Defense Materiel Agency.
The new howitzers will feature upgraded communication systems and integration with Norway’s combat platforms. Hanwha will also provide an Integrated Logistics Support package covering training, spare parts, and maintenance, in cooperation with Norwegian industry.
Strengthening Hanwha’s Presence in Europe
Norway first procured K9 howitzers from Hanwha in 2017 under a 1.8-billion-kroner ($181 million) contract, a move that marked the beginning of the country’s artillery modernization program.
In 2022, Oslo exercised an option for more K9s, citing the platform’s performance and reliability in Arctic conditions.
Hanwha Aerospace CEO and President Jae-il Son said the company is proud to contribute to the strengthening of Norway’s “sovereign defense capabilities” and expressed optimism for continued collaboration in the years ahead.
“Looking ahead, we will solidify our position as a strategic partner dedicated to securing the sovereign capabilities of NATO and the wider European community,” he said.
Several European countries have also signed deals with Hanwha Aerospace in recent years, reflecting the firm’s growing footprint in the continent’s defense sector.
In early September, Hanwha announced two major contracts with a Polish-based institute to “collaborate on various aspects of ammunition technology.”
