Nam Hyun-woo has worked as a staff writer at The Korea Times since 2013, mostly covering business and politics. He currently belongs to the Business Desk where he covers topics such as emerging tech, AI, ICT and Korea's chaebol community. Prior to joining the team, he was the paper's correspondent for the presidential office of Korea during the Yoon Suk Yeol and Moon Jae-in administrations.
Hanwha Aerospace signs 3rd contract to supply K9 howitzers to Norway
Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il, right, poses with Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency Director General Gro Jaere in Oslo, Norway, Thursday (local time), after signing a deal to deliver 24 K9 VIDAR self-propelled howitzers to Norway. Courtesy of Hanwha Aerospace
By Nam Hyun-woo
Hanwha Aerospace has signed a third contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) to deliver 24 additional K9 VIDAR self-propelled howitzers.
The agreement was signed in Oslo, Thursday (local time), with Hanwha Aerospace President and CEO Son Jae-il, NDMA Director General Gro Jaere, Norwegian Army Chief Maj. Gen. Lars Lervik and Korean Ambassador to Norway Seo Min-jeong in attendance.
The order will increase Norway’s K9 VIDAR fleet to 52 systems, strengthening the artillery capabilities of the NATO member. VIDAR refers to versatile indirect artillery. Norway decided on the expansion after evaluating the platform’s performance and Hanwha’s fulfillment of previous contracts.
“We are proud to contribute once again to strengthening Norway’s sovereign defense capabilities,” Son said. “Looking ahead, we will solidify our position as a strategic partner dedicated to securing the capabilities of NATO and the wider European community.”
Jaere said the new deal will provide the Norwegian Armed Forces with equipment that meets requirements for time, cost and performance. She added that delivery of the additional 24 systems is scheduled for 2027.
The K9s will feature upgraded communications systems and integration with the Norwegian combat system. The contract also includes an integrated logistics support package with training and maintenance solutions developed in partnership with Norwegian industry.
Hanwha said the deal reinforces its presence in Europe and may open the door for future exports, including its Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system.