Australia’s first Huntsman howitzer spotted in South Korea

The first AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer was spotted in South Korea.

This new platform is part of the LAND 8116 Phase 1 program, which aims to strengthen the Australian Army’s artillery capabilities. The initiative includes the procurement of 30 AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzers and 15 armored ammunition resupply vehicles (AS10), with deliveries set to commence in 2025.

The AS9 Huntsman is a modified version of Hanwha Defense’s K9 Thunder, a 52-caliber 155mm gun system currently in use by several NATO and non-NATO countries. The AS9 variant incorporates lessons from the global fleet of K9 howitzers and K10 resupply vehicles, bringing new levels of maneuverability, protection, and firepower to the Australian Army.

Australia’s Department of Defence signed a contract worth AUD 1 billion (USD 665 million) in 2021 with Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA) to procure the Huntsman family of vehicles. This collaboration marks a major milestone for Australia, as the K9 is recognized globally for its operational reliability and adaptability in various combat environments.

The AS10 ammunition resupply vehicle, based on the K10 platform, offers a highly protected system designed to reduce risk to soldiers by automating the ammunition loading process. The vehicle’s armored design ensures soldiers remain safe from enemy fire while maintaining the howitzer’s sustained firepower.

With its widespread adoption, the K9 family is becoming the most popular self-propelled howitzer globally, currently in service with nine nations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.