Hanwha Aerospace to Test K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer with US XM907 Cannon
Hanwha Aerospace announced plans to test the K9 self-propelled howitzer with the US-made XM907 cannon, following a CRADA agreement with the US Army. The integration of the 155 mm XM907, which features a longer barrel than the original cannon, may necessitate modifications to the K9A1 to accommodate differences in design and recoil. Despite the cancellation of the XM1299 program, the US Army continues to explore advanced self-propelled howitzer options, including a potential development version of the K9.
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On December 18, South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace announced plans to test the K9 self-propelled howitzer with the US-made XM907 cannon. This project, under a CRADA agreement with the US Army's Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center, aims to integrate the 155 mm BAE Systems XM907 cannon, which has a barrel length of 58 calibers, replacing the original Hyundai WIA CN98 with a 52-caliber barrel.
The K9A1 may require modifications due to the different design of the XM907, which impacts size and recoil. Hanwha Aerospace stated that the K9 family should meet requirements regarding dimensions and recoil, potentially minimizing necessary changes.
The XM907 was developed as part of the ERCA program for the XM1299 howitzer, intended to replace outdated M109 models. Although the program was canceled in 2024 due to technical issues and cost concerns, the US Army continues to seek improved self-propelled howitzer solutions, likely considering a development version of the K9.
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