Poland Receives 18 K9A1 Self-Propelled Howitzers

Eighteen additional K9A1 self-propelled howitzers from South Korea have reached Poland, as reported by the press service of the Polish Army.

The delivery was made via sea transport to the port of Gdynia, with the ship arriving on December 17, 2023.

This marks the fourth shipment of South Korean K9A1 self-propelled howitzers to Poland, following the dispatch from South Korea on October 20, 2023.

With the reception of this batch, the Polish military's inventory now boasts a total of 66 K9 self-propelled howitzers, part of a $2.4 billion agreement signed in August 2022. According to the agreement between the Polish Arms Agency and South Korean defense company Hanwha Defense, a total of 212 howitzers are scheduled for delivery to the Polish army within the period of 2022-2026.

The initial 48 self-propelled howitzers delivered were pre-owned, undergoing necessary updates to replace outdated parts before shipment. Upon arrival in Poland, these artillery systems underwent further modifications, integrating domestic Topaz Integrated Combat Management Systems and Fonet Digital Communication Platforms. Additionally, the manufacturer's labeling was changed from English to Polish.

An additional 164 howitzers are currently in production for Poland, with the recent shipment on December 17, 2023, marking the first delivery of the new K9A1 howitzers.

Furthermore, on December 1, 2023, Poland placed an order for 152 more Korean K9 self-propelled howitzers in two versions. The $2.6 billion contract encompasses the acquisition of six K9A1 self-propelled howitzers in 2025 and 146 K9PL self-propelled howitzers in 2026-2027 for the Polish Army. The agreement also includes a comprehensive training and logistics package, along with the supply of tens of thousands of 155 mm artillery shells, spare parts, and additional auxiliary equipment.