Australia’s First Huntsman Howitzer Spotted in South Korea
The Australian Army's ambitious modernization program has taken a significant leap forward with the sighting of its first AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer in South Korea. This advanced artillery system is part of Australia's LAND 8116 Phase 1 program, a major initiative aimed at enhancing the nation's artillery capabilities to meet future battlefield demands.
The AS9 Huntsman, a heavily modified version of Hanwha Defense's K9 Thunder, is set to play a pivotal role in boosting Australia's long-range artillery firepower. The K9 Thunder, which serves as the foundation for the AS9, is already widely regarded as one of the most effective self-propelled howitzers globally. It's currently in service with multiple countries, including NATO and non-NATO members, thanks to its battle-proven reliability, mobility, and superior firepower. However, the Australian variant brings additional improvements tailored specifically for the Australian Army's operational needs.
Why the AS9 Huntsman is a Game-Changer
The AS9 Huntsman isn't just a copy of the K9 Thunder—it incorporates numerous upgrades and modifications that make it uniquely suited for Australia's defense requirements. Like the K9, the AS9 is equipped with a 52-caliber 155mm gun system, capable of delivering powerful, precise strikes over extended ranges. However, the AS9 benefits from technological advancements derived from the global experience of K9 users, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of modern artillery warfare.
One of the critical upgrades in the AS9 is its improved armor protection, which enhances survivability on the battlefield. This increased protection ensures that the crew inside the howitzer remains safe from enemy fire and shrapnel, a crucial feature in high-threat environments. The vehicle also boasts enhanced mobility, allowing it to traverse rugged terrain with greater ease, an essential characteristic for Australia's diverse landscapes.
Australia’s Major Investment in Artillery
In 2021, Australia's Department of Defence signed a deal worth AUD 1 billion (USD 665 million) with Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA) to procure a total of 30 AS9 Huntsman howitzers and 15 AS10 armored ammunition resupply vehicles. These vehicles are set to be delivered starting in 2025, representing a major step forward in strengthening Australia's artillery capabilities.
The AS10 resupply vehicle, based on the K10 platform, is another key component of the Australian Army’s modernization effort. Its automated ammunition loading system ensures that soldiers remain well-protected from enemy fire while maintaining the AS9's rapid firing capability. The system is designed to minimize exposure to danger by keeping soldiers inside the armored vehicle during resupply operations, ensuring the sustained effectiveness of the artillery unit.
This partnership between Hanwha and the Australian government also highlights Australia's growing role in the global defense industry. As Hanwha integrates lessons from the K9's extensive service record, Australia is positioning itself as a major player in military technology and artillery systems.
Global Popularity of the K9 Family
The K9 Thunder, on which the AS9 is based, has become one of the most widely used self-propelled howitzers globally. It is currently operational in nine countries, spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including nations like Norway, Estonia, and Egypt. With the addition of the AS9 to its fleet, Australia joins a growing list of countries that recognize the K9's exceptional performance in a variety of combat scenarios.
Australia's choice to adopt the AS9 variant signals a commitment to ensuring its military remains well-equipped for modern warfare. This new howitzer, combined with the AS10 resupply vehicle, will provide the Australian Army with the enhanced firepower, protection, and mobility needed to face future threats.
As the first AS9 Huntsman is spotted in South Korea, it marks a significant milestone in Australia's journey to modernize its defense capabilities. With deliveries set to begin in 2025, the Huntsman family of vehicles is poised to reshape Australia's artillery landscape for decades to come.
