First AS9 Huntsman Howitzer for Australia Assembled by Hanwha
15 October, 2024 The first AS9 Huntsman self-propelled artillery system made for the Australian Army. October 2024. Republic of Korea: Photo: @mason_8718
Korea's Hanwha Aerospace has completed the assembly of the first 155mm AS9 Huntsman for Australia. The first Australian self-propelled artillery system was spotted during transportation. A photo of it was posted by the user Mason on X.
The AS9 Huntsman is intended for the Australian Army as part of the Land-8116 Phase 1 project. On October 12, 2024, the howitzer was spotted being transported to the Korean test site in Changwon for a test and evaluation phase before being delivered to the customer. In December 2021, Australia signed a contract with Hanwha Defense for the supply of 155-mm self-propelled howitzers, as well as related equipment and machinery, following a tender.
The first AS9 Huntsman self-propelled artillery system made for the Australian Army.
October 2024. Republic of Korea: Photo: @mason_8718
The agreement worth £720 million was signed between the Australian Department of Defense and Hanwha Defense Australia. The contract provides for the supply of 30 K9 self-propelled howitzers, which are designated AS9 Huntsman in Australia.
The deal also includes 15 K10 armored transport and loading vehicles (designated AS10), an artillery reconnaissance radar and auxiliary systems. The bulk of the howitzers will be manufactured under license at a facility that is set to be built in Geelong, Victoria.
Tests of K9 Thunder (AS9 Huntsman).
2023. Photo: Australian Department of Defense
In August 2024, Hanwha held an opening ceremony for its first armored vehicle production base in Australia. Hanwha Defense is working on the compatibility of AS9 artillery systems with 155mm Australian-made shells, including 155mm Rheinmetall Assegai artillery ammunition.
Tests of the K9 Thunder (AS9 Huntsman).
2023.
Photo: Australian Ministry of Defense
In 2023, Korean self-propelled guns AS9 Huntsman, which are being prepared for Australia, were tested with 155mm Rheinmetall Assegai shells.