Norway Expands Military Capabilities with New K9 Thunder Howitzers

Oslo, Norway - April 9, 2025 — In response to escalating security concerns in Europe, Norway has announced plans to significantly boost its artillery capabilities by acquiring an additional 24 K9 Thunder howitzers from South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace. The deal, valued at approximately 5.65 billion Norwegian kroner (US$534 million), is part of a broader investment initiative totaling around 17 billion Norwegian kroner (US$1.60 billion) aimed at modernizing the Norwegian Armed Forces.

The announcement was made by Norway's Minister of Defense, Tore O. Sandvik, who emphasized the urgent need to strengthen national defense amid heightened geopolitical tensions. "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," Sandvik said.

New Artillery Battalion

The newly procured K9 Thunder howitzers will be integral to forming a new artillery battalion as part of the planned Finnmark Brigade, which is designed to enhance Norway’s defensive posture in the northern regions. This development reinforces Norway’s commitment to modernize its military arsenal with advanced artillery systems.

Norway's acquisition of K9 Thunder howitzers is part of a continuous effort to enhance its military capabilities, beginning with its initial purchase agreement in December 2017. Previously, Norway ordered 24 K9 howitzers along with six K10 ammunition vehicles. The first deliveries were completed by 2020, replacing the older M109A3GN tanks that had been in operation for over 50 years. These vintage tanks have since been donated to Ukraine.

In a subsequent order in 2022, Norway expanded its fleet by four additional K9 howitzers and eight K10 vehicles. Prior to this latest acquisition, Norway had accumulated a total of 28 K9 howitzers and 14 K10 vehicles.

Strengthening NATO Interoperability

The strategic decision to purchase more K9 Thunder howitzers underscores Norway's confidence in the platform's operational effectiveness and its compatibility with NATO's military operations. With the latest order, Norway's total investment in the K9 artillery system amounts to 11.1 billion kroner (US$1.02 billion).

In addition to bolstering artillery capabilities, the comprehensive defense procurement plan includes investments in maritime mine countermeasures, unmanned surface vehicles, remotely operated vehicles, and autonomous underwater vehicles for the Norwegian Navy. These enhancements aim to ensure safe navigation for both Norwegian and allied vessels in local waters while securing critical underwater infrastructure.

"We have to make sure that the Armed Forces have the resources needed to detect and neutralize mines and other explosives underwater. It will contribute to safe sailing for our own and allied ships in Norwegian waters," Minister Sandvik stated.

Regional Trends in Defense Procurement

Norway's military investment reflects a broader trend in the Baltic region, where several nations have recognized the importance of modern artillery systems. Estonia, for instance, has ordered a total of 36 K9 Thunder SPHs from Hanwha Aerospace since its initial purchase in 2018. Finland has also expanded its K9 fleet, increasing its total from 48 to 96 units in response to security assessments following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Poland stands out as the most committed buyer of the K9 howitzer series, with an extensive framework agreement for 672 units. India's recent decision to double its order of K9 howitzers further illustrates the international demand for this artillery system.

A Booming Market for K9 Thunder

Developed by Hanwha Aerospace, the K9 Thunder is a 155mm/52-caliber tracked self-propelled howitzer that has gained prominence as a top choice in the global arms market. Notable for its advanced capabilities, the K9 can hit targets over 40 kilometers away and features a rapid-fire mode that allows for multiple projectiles to be launched in quick succession.

Since its introduction in 1999, the K9 system has become a vital element of South Korea's defense exports. Over 1,400 units have been delivered or are in the process of being exported internationally.

As Norway and other nations in the region continue to adapt to changing security dynamics, the K9 Thunder is poised to play a critical role in enhancing military preparedness and operational capabilities across various allied forces.