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Testing of the Australian Army’s incoming AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer is nearing completion in South Korea.
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The self-propelled artillery system is being trialled with three-round burst and automated loading capabilities.
Blast testing has previously been conducted in Israel to mimic the effects of a landmine by detonating an explosive charge at the base of a full size AS9 hull fitted with crash test dummies, cameras, and sensors.
The Australian Army will receive two AS9s, modelled off the South Korean K9 Thunder, and an AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle imported from South Korea.
Major Brendan Kelleher of the project team under Land 8116 said the tests ensured the combination of Australian ammunition and a Korean cannon were safe for service.
“While we know in isolation the K9’s cannon is safe and in isolation, the ammunition is safe, this testing makes sure they are compatible,” MAJ Kelleher said.
A further 42 vehicles will begin production late next year at a new Hanwha Defense Australia factory currently under construction near Avalon, Victoria. The company will also work with the Australian Defence Force to integrate Australian 155mm shells and new Rheinmetall Assegai munitions.
Tasmanian heavy equipment company Elphinstone will manufacture the hulls and turrets, and the first AS9 is expected to be completed in Australia by the end of 2025.
Once the Australian factory is established, subsequent tests will collect ballistics data required to use the AS9 with the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Systems, used to calculate and coordinate firing.
Further testing will also be conducted in Australia focused on protection of the vehicle from small arms fire and shrapnel.
“A coupon (metal sample) from the steel, of which the vehicle is built, is placed in a vice and a slug is shot into it,” MAJ Kelleher said.
“This is repeated against coupons of different thickness to understand the levels of protection.
“The feedback we’re getting from other users is they are impressed by the maturity and ease of use of the platform.
“It is a big increase in range and lethality from the in-service towed howitzer, made possible by the longer cannon and higher rates of fire.
“For junior gunners and non-commissioned officers, it’s going to be a challenging but exciting step up to manage both a cannon and an armoured vehicle, likely with greater autonomy than they might have on a normal gun line.”
