Norway Expands K9 Thunder Howitzer Fleet Amid Growing Security Concerns

Oslo, Norway – April 9, 2025
Norway has announced plans to expand its artillery capabilities by doubling its fleet of K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers from South Korean manufacturer Hanwha Aerospace. The Norwegian government has placed an order for 24 additional K9 Thunder howitzers, valued at approximately 5.65 billion Norwegian kroner (US$534 million).

Investment in National Defense

This decision is part of a broader defense modernization initiative. On April 4, the Norwegian government revealed a proposal for an investment totaling around 17 billion Norwegian kroner (US$1.60 billion) aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Norwegian Armed Forces. Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik emphasized the urgency of these investments in light of escalating security threats, stating, "We are facing a serious security situation. We are therefore requesting the Storting [Parliament] to approve significant investments in various parts of the Armed Forces in order to strengthen Norway’s defense capability."

The K9 Thunder howitzers will be integral to a new artillery battalion designated for the future Finnmark Brigade—a strategic unit intended to fortify Norway’s defense posture in the northern regions.

Background of K9 Thunder Acquisition

Norway's progression toward modernized artillery began in December 2017 when it first signed a contract with Hanwha Land Systems, ordering 24 K9 vehicles alongside six K10 ammunition carriers. The initial batch was delivered by 2020, replacing the outdated M109A3GN tanks that had served the Norwegian military for over 50 years before being donated to Ukraine.

In 2022, Norway expanded its commitment by exercising an option to procure four additional K9 howitzers along with eight K10 vehicles, bringing its total to 28 K9 howitzers and 14 K10 vehicles prior to the latest announcement.

Growing Confidence in Artillery System

The latest order reflects Norway's growing reliance on the K9 Thunder system, which has demonstrated battlefield effectiveness and operational compatibility with NATO forces. To date, Norway's total expenditure on the K9 artillery system has reached approximately 11.1 billion kroner (US$1.02 billion).

In addition to the K9 howitzers, the new defense procurement plan includes advanced maritime mine countermeasures, unmanned surface vehicles, remotely operated vehicles, and autonomous underwater vehicles for the Norwegian Navy. Minister Sandvik highlighted the importance of these tools for securing Norway's maritime boundaries and critical infrastructure.

Regional Trends in K9 Procurement

Norway joins several Baltic countries in bolstering their artillery capabilities through K9 Thunder acquisitions. Estonia, for instance, has significantly increased its order from the initial 24 units to a total of 36. Similarly, Finland has expanded its procurement from 48 to 96 K9 units, reacting to the contemporary security environment shaped by regional geopolitical tensions.

Poland, however, stands out with its ambitious framework agreement for 672 K9 howitzers, demonstrating a robust commitment to enhancing its military strength. In addition, India has also doubled its order, totaling 200 K9 units since its original procurement in 2017. ## K9 Thunder's Distinct Features

Developed by Hanwha Aerospace, the K9 Thunder is a state-of-the-art 155mm/52-caliber self-propelled howitzer. It boasts a firing range exceeding 40 kilometers and can deliver multiple rounds to a target in a matter of seconds, significantly improving rapid response capabilities. Over 1,400 K9 units have been produced or are planned for export since its introduction in 1999, establishing it as a critical component for many countries' artillery systems.

As Norway enhances its military arsenal, the commitment to the K9 Thunder signifies not only a reinforcement of national capabilities but also a reflection of broader trends in modern defense strategies across Europe and beyond.