K9 Thunder

South Korea (1999) SPG.
Hanwha Aerospace: 1,800+ built

The K9 Thunder is a South Korean 155 mm self-propelled howitzer designed and developed by the Agency for Defense Development and private corporations such as Dongmyeong, Kia, Poongsan and Samsung for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces (ROKAF) and later manufactured by Hanwha Aerospace. The K9 howitzer was introduced in 1999 and the K9A1 in 2018, operating organically with the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle variant. The K9A2 tested for production. It was also incredibly successful at export, by 2022, with a 52% global marjet share in this category: Egypt (K9A1/K10EGY), Poland (AHS Krab), Estonia (K9EST Kõu), Finland (K9FIN Moukari), India (K9 Vajra-T), Norway (K9/10 VIDAR), and Turkey (T-155 Fırtına I).

The K9 Thunder is a self-propelled 155mm howitzer developed by Hanwha Defense (formerly Samsung Techwin) for the South Korean Army. It is one of the most advanced artillery systems in the world and plays a significant role in South Korea's defense capabilities. Here’s an overview of its key features and significance:
Key Features:

Firepower:

The K9 Thunder is armed with a 155mm L/52 howitzer, capable of firing various types of shells, including high-explosive (HE), guided, and rocket-assisted projectiles. It has a maximum range of around 40 kilometers (with standard ammunition) and can reach up to 50 kilometers using advanced, rocket-assisted projectiles. It can fire 6 to 8 rounds per minute in rapid fire mode and sustain a continuous fire rate of 2 to 3 rounds per minute. The system is equipped with an automatic shell loading system, reducing crew fatigue during extended operations. The K9 is equipped with a sophisticated fire control system that enables fast and accurate targeting. It includes automatic gun-laying systems and an advanced inertial navigation system (INS), allowing precise firing even in fast-paced operational environments.

Mobility:

The K9 is highly mobile thanks to its tracked chassis, allowing it to maneuver over rugged terrains. It can reach speeds of 67 km/h and has an operational range of around 480 kilometers.

Protection and Survivability:

The K9 is designed with steel armor that provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell fragments. It features nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection, enhancing its survivability in contaminated environments.

K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle:

The K9 is often paired with the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle, which provides automated ammunition resupply in combat situations. The K10 can carry up to 104 rounds and ensures that the K9 can maintain a high rate of fire during extended engagements.

Exports:

The K9 Thunder has been a highly successful export product for South Korea, with countries like Turkey (T-155 Fırtına), India (K9 Vajra-T), Norway, Finland, Estonia, Poland, and Australia purchasing or co-producing variants of the system. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it one of the most popular self-propelled howitzers worldwide.

Role in the South Korean Army:

The K9 is a critical component of South Korea’s defense strategy, particularly in the context of its ongoing tensions with North Korea. Its ability to rapidly fire and relocate after an attack is crucial in counter-battery missions, where it must avoid enemy artillery fire while delivering precise and powerful strikes. In summary, the K9 Thunder is a modern and capable artillery system, providing a powerful mix of firepower, mobility, and survivability, making it a key asset for both South Korea and the various nations that have adopted it.

More to come in a future update, proper writing

K-9 specifications
Dimensions	12(7.44 hull) x 3.4 x 2.73 (39 ft 4 in x 11 ft 2 in x 8 ft 11 in)
Weight	47t, up to 52t, 53t for the A2
Crew	5 (Commander, Driver, Gunner, 2 Loaders), 3 on A2
Propulsion	STX Engine/MTU Friedrichshafen MT881Ka-500 1,000 hp @2,700 rpm
Suspension	SNT Dynamics/Allison Transmission X1100-5A3 (4+2)
Speed (road)	67 km/h (42 mph)
Range	360 km (220 mi) based on 850 L (225 U.S. gal)
Armament	Hyundai WIA CN98 155 mm/52(48), SNT Dynamics K6 12.7mm HMG
Armor	POSCO MIL-12560H steel/Bisalloy steel (export)
Total production	c1800 in 2024