Norway Expands K9 Thunder Howitzer Fleet as Part of Defense Modernization

By Sumit Ahlawat

April 9, 2025

Norway is significantly expanding its military capabilities with a major purchase of K9 Thunder howitzers from South Korea. Following similar moves by Poland, Finland, and India, the Norwegian government has announced an order to acquire 24 additional K9 Thunder self-propelled artillery units. The deal, valued at 5.65 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately US$534 million), represents a vital component of Norway's broader defense enhancement strategy.

Investment in Defense Capabilities

On April 4, 2025, Norway’s Minister of Defense, Tore O. Sandvik, presented a government proposal to invest around 17 billion Norwegian kroner (US$1.60 billion) into the modernization of the Norwegian Armed Forces. Sandvik emphasized the urgent need for these investments, stating, "We are facing a serious security situation," and urged for approvals from the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) to fortify the nation's defense capabilities.

The acquisition of the K9 howitzers will play a central role in establishing a new artillery battalion in the forthcoming Finnmark Brigade, which is designed to enhance Norway's military posture in the high north.

Continuation of Modernization Efforts

This recent order marks a continuation of Norway’s artillery modernization efforts, which began in December 2017 when the country first contracted with Hanwha Land Systems for purchasing 24 K9 vehicles alongside six K10 ammunition vehicles. By 2020, these systems replaced older M109A3GN tanks that had been in service for over 50 years, thus significantly upgrading the operational firepower and mobility of the Norwegian Army's artillery units.

Previously, Norway expanded its fleet by ordering four additional K9 howitzers and eight K10 vehicles in 2022. Prior to the latest acquisition, Norway operated 28 K9 howitzers and 14 K10 vehicles.

Enhancing Defense against Geopolitical Tensions

The push for additional howitzers aligns with heightened geopolitical tensions in the Baltic region and concerns regarding the shifting focus of the United States towards other global security commitments. In light of these developments, Norway has proposed an increase in its defense budget for 2025 by 19.2 billion kroner, reaching a total of 110.1 billion kroner (about US$10.07 billion), and a commitment to elevate defense spending by an additional 600 billion kroner (approximately US$54.8 billion) over the next 12 years.

Regional Adoption of K9 Thunder Howitzers

Norway joins other Baltic countries in strengthening their artillery capabilities with the K9 Thunder system. Estonia, for instance, placed an order for 24 K9 howitzers in 2018, followed by an additional 12 units in early 2023, bringing the total to 36. Likewise, Finland began its procurement of K9 Thunder units in 2017 and has since doubled its initial order to a total of 96 howitzers in response to evolving security threats.

Poland has taken the lead in this regional trend, securing a framework agreement for 672 K9 howitzers in 2022. Recent transactions include substantial orders worth billions, indicating a robust commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities through these advanced artillery systems.

Overview of the K9 Thunder System

The K9 Thunder, manufactured by Hanwha Aerospace, is a state-of-the-art 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer recognized for its mobility and firepower. It is capable of firing shells at distances exceeding 40 kilometers and employs sophisticated targeting and firing modes, further contributing to its growing popularity in international defense markets.

Since its launch in 1999, the K9 has become a significant player in global artillery systems, with over 1,400 units delivered or projected for export, reinforcing South Korea’s status as a prominent military equipment exporter.

Conclusion

Norway's decision to expand its K9 Thunder fleet reflects a strategic response to current security challenges and a commitment to modernize its military capabilities. As Norway enhances its defense posture, it reinforces a broader trend among Baltic states to invest in effective artillery systems that address contemporary military demands.