Poland Receives New Korean-Produced Howitzers

Reference News Network reported on July 24 According to the German magazine Focus' website on July 21, at the beginning of this month, South Korea's Hanwha Group delivered the first batch of K9PL self-propelled howitzers to Poland, which is a new model customized according to the needs of the Polish Armed Forces.

According to Polish media reports, the Polish military has received 218 K9 self-propelled howitzers. Of the delivered K9 howitzers, 212 were delivered under a contract signed in 2022, while another 6 were delivered under a follow-up agreement in 2023. Just seven months after the completion of the first contract's delivery, South Korea began shipping the systems newly ordered in 2023.

Now, with the delivery of the K9PL, Poland has obtained this new model for the first time. According to the second execution agreement signed in 2023, Poland will ultimately receive a total of 146 units of this type of artillery.

The K9 self-propelled howitzer is one of South Korea's most important weapon systems. The system is equipped with a 52-caliber 155mm main gun. When using standard ammunition, the range is approximately 40 kilometers, with a maximum firing rate of up to 6 rounds per minute. Additionally, it is equipped with a 12.7mm caliber machine gun as a secondary weapon.

The K9 self-propelled howitzer is powered by a 1,000 horsepower diesel engine with an automatic transmission, ensuring mobility. According to the manufacturer, it can reach a maximum speed of 70 kilometers per hour on paved roads.

This delivery is part of the Polish military's push for large-scale modernization. While procuring self-propelled howitzers from South Korea, Poland also plans to purchase rocket artillery and other weapon systems. If all signed contracts are fulfilled, Poland could ultimately possess 576 K9 and "Crab" self-propelled howitzers. Additionally, Poland plans to equip itself with 310 K239 "Cheonmu" and M142 "HIMARS" rocket artillery systems. (Translated by Zhong Sirui)