Estonia received six K9 self-propelled howitzers

16 December, 2023 K9 self-propelled howitzer of the Estonian Defense Forces. December 2023. Photo credits: Estonian Ministry of Defense

Another batch of K9 self-propelled howitzers was delivered to Estonia from South Korea. The press service of the Estonian Ministry of Defense reported about this on Saturday, December 16. This batch consists of 6 155-mm self-propelled howitzers.

Previously, Estonia had already received 18 K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers, which were named K9 Kou (Thunder). Thus, Estonia already has 24 such howitzers. This has significantly improved the firepower of the Estonian Defense Forces. The previous batch of 6 K9 self-propelled howitzers arrived in Estonia from South Korea in December 2022.

K9 Kou self-propelled howitzer of the Estonian Defense Forces

K9 self-propelled howitzers for Estonia

The first K9 Kou self-propelled howitzer was delivered to Estonia in 2020. In-depth training on the use of these howitzers for the Estonian Defense Forces personnel began in September 2020 in South Korea.

In January 2023, the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments signed a contract with the South Korean company Hanwha Techwin for the supply of 12 additional 155-mm K9 self-propelled howitzers. The total value of this agreement is about EUR36 million. The delivery of ordered self-propelled howitzers is scheduled to be completed in 2026.

K9 Kou self-propelled howitzer of the Estonian Defense Forces.

Photo credits: ERR

Two infantry brigades of the Estonian Armed Forces will be additionally equipped with these self-propelled howitzers. The Estonian Defense Forces have an instructional center that trained the first crews of self-propelled howitzers. In 2021, Estonia signed a framework agreement with Go Craft about the 24 howitzers modernization.

The work includes the installation of communication and control systems for self-propelled howitzers, painting works, replacement of the fire extinguishing system, adaptation of the electrical system, and installation of other devices.