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South Korean AS9 Huntsman 155mm self-propelled howitzers are reportedly already on the ground in Australia.
The Department of Defence has confirmed the delivery of two AS9 155 mm/52 calibre tracked self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) and one AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle to Australia late last year, according to defence website Janes.
Hanwha Defence Australia is reportedly undertaking comprehensive testing of the three vehicles, according to a quoted Defence spokesperson.
In addition, late last year Australian Army gunners were able to fire the incoming K9 self-propelled howitzer as part of familiarisation training held in South Korea.
Townsville-based gunners were among nine members attending the training on the K9 self-propelled howitzer to become future instructors on the vehicles, which will be primarily operated by 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery in Townsville by 2028.
At that time it was expected that there would be more in-depth, train-the-trainer course for potential instructors so they can teach trainees from the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery at Puckapunyal.
The Australian AS9 Huntsman and AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle, which are based on the Korean K9 and K10, will have increased internal height, modernised direct fire and fire control systems, additional storage, and air conditioning.
Thirty AS9s and 15 AS10s are expected to be in service in the Army by 2028 and will be primarily operated by 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery in Townsville.
