Hanwha to Market Low-Cost K-9 Howitzer Alternative

A rendering of the K105. (Source: Hanwha Aerospace)

Hanwha Aerospace is looking to export a lower-price alternative to the K-9 self-propelled howitzer. The K105 is a 105mm howitzer installed on the back of a truck. K105 is by no means a new invention, as it first debuted during the Korean War (1950-53). However, the latest version of the K105 reportedly includes certain modern technologies seen in the K-9, such as those relevant to automation and fire control.

Hanwha reportedly plans to focus K105 sales in Latin America and South-East Asia. Meanwhile, Hanwha is in the process of delivering 850 units of the K105 to the South Korean armed forces. The K105’s price tag (KRW 800 million/USD 560K) is 1/10 of the K-9 (KRW 8 billion/USD 5.6 million).