BAE Systems Collaborates with US Army to Develop M109-52 Self-Propelled Howitzer Prototype

M109-52

 BAE Systems is working with the U.S. Army to develop a prototype self-propelled howitzer (SPH) M109-52. This prototype uses the chassis and turret from the M109A7 and combines them with the Rheinmetall L52 155 mm cannon. This gun is the same as the one installed on the very successful PzH2000, which was largely used in Ukraine. 

The partnership is a Joint Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between BAE and the U.S. Army Combat Capability Development Command (DEVCOM-AC) Weapons Center, which allows the two organizations to work together on system development.

The M109-52 was originally a project independently funded by BAE, which anticipated the army's interest. Previously, DEVCOM-AC managed the Extended Range Cannon Artillery program, which developed the XM1299 self-propelled artillery system with a record-breaking 58 caliber cannon. This system demonstrated a remarkable firing range, but problems with barrel wear and suspension deformation led to the cancellation in 2024, as a result of which the army began to look for a new self-propelled artillery installation.

Hanwha Aerospace presents the K9A3 concept design: a new evolution of the self-propelled howitzer

 

K9A3

South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace has released new promotional materials demonstrating the next stage in the development of its flagship K9 self-propelled howitzer. The new conceptual design, dubbed K9A3, promises to be a revolutionary step in the field of artillery systems thanks to advanced automation technologies and improved combat performance.

The K9A3 is an upgraded version of the legendary K9 self-propelled howitzer, which has already established itself internationally. According to promotional materials, the new system will be equipped with many innovative features that will significantly increase its effectiveness on the battlefield. Key features of the K9A3 include:

- Manned and unmanned control: The possibility of both traditional crew control and remote control via operator interfaces.

- Autonomous Driving: Integration of autonomous technologies to navigate and complete tasks without human intervention.

- New Turret Design: The improved turret provides increased firepower, accuracy, and protection.

- Improved Automation: Fully automated loading and firing processes reduce response time and increase productivity.

The K9A3 is designed to meet modern requirements for artillery systems, where speed, accuracy, and survivability are key factors. Thanks to the manned and unmanned control modes, the system can be used in a variety of conditions — from classic ground operations to complex urban battles. Autonomous driving also minimizes the risk to personnel, especially in high-risk areas.

In addition, the new turret design and improved automation provide a significant increase in the rate of fire and accuracy. This makes the K9A3 an ideal choice for supporting ground troops and performing strategic missions.

Hanwha Aerospace continues to strengthen its position as one of the leaders in the development of artillery systems. The K9A3 could become an important product on the international market, attracting the attention of countries seeking to modernize their armed forces. Experts point out that the demand for highly automated and multifunctional systems such as the K9A3 will only grow with the development of technology and the increasing complexity of military threats.

The presented conceptual design of the K9A3 demonstrates how future technologies are changing traditional ideas about weapons. Autonomous and unmanned solutions are becoming an integral part of modern warfare, and systems like the K9A3 set new standards for efficiency and versatility.

However, the successful implementation of the project will require significant investments in research and development, as well as close cooperation with international partners. If the K9A3 is successfully implemented, it will become a symbol of technological progress in the defense industry.

South Korean K9 Thunder howitzer: an alternative in the Canadian Armed Forces modernization program

K9 Thunder

South Korea is actively promoting its K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer as a key element in the Canadian Armed Forces modernization program. This step is particularly significant against the background of growing tensions between Ottawa and Washington, which makes American-made artillery systems less attractive to the Canadian government. The K9 Thunder howitzer is positioned as a modern and competitive alternative capable of meeting the needs of the Canadian Army.

According to Canadian media reports, a delegation of South Korean military officials and representatives of the defense industry visited Ottawa in early March. The purpose of the visit was to explore the potential for expanding defense cooperation between the two countries. Various proposals were considered during the discussions, including the supply of K9 Thunder howitzers, training aircraft, multiple launch rocket systems, and even submarines.

The K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer has already established itself in the international arena due to its reliability, high rate of fire and the ability to fire at long distances. These characteristics make it attractive to countries seeking to strengthen their artillery capabilities. For Canada, which is actively modernizing its armed forces, the K9 Thunder could be an important acquisition.

However, experts note that the decision to choose new artillery equipment will depend not only on technical characteristics, but also on geopolitical factors. Tensions with the United States may prompt Canada to turn to alternative suppliers such as South Korea, which will strengthen the latter's position in the global arms market.

If the agreement is successfully concluded, it will be a significant step in the development of defense cooperation between South Korea and Canada, as well as strengthen Seoul's role as a global exporter of military equipment.

HSW has started developing heavy infantry fighting vehicles based on Krab: a new stage of Polish military engineering

 

Polish Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicle (BMP) mounted on a Krab self-propelled howitzer chassis

The Polish company Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW) has launched research and development (R&D) to create a heavy infantry fighting vehicle (BMP) on the chassis of a Krab self-propelled howitzer. This project, which was initially discussed in the 2010s, received a new impetus due to internal financing of the enterprise and strategic plans to attract external investors at late stages.  

The new infantry fighting vehicle will use the Krab chassis, a platform that has already proven itself in artillery systems. Abandoning buoyancy, unlike its light counterparts, will increase reservations and armament, making the vehicle suitable for supporting tank units. The concept assumes a modular architecture, which will facilitate modernization and adaptation to infantry tasks.  

HSW has extensive experience in the development of armored vehicles: in the 1960s, the company licensed the production of the Soviet BMP-1 under the TB-40 brand, and in the 2020s participated in the Borsuk program, a promising infantry fighting vehicle for the Polish army. The company is also known for its cooperation with WB Electronics on ZSSW-30 remote combat modules and the production of Patriot launchers. 

At the initial stage, the project is funded by HSW's own funds, which underlines the company's confidence in its viability. After the completion of the R&D, it is planned to attract external partners, including public and private structures. This will allow to scale production and integrate innovative technologies such as active protection or unmanned functions.  

South Korean delegation discusses defense equipment supplies to Canada

South Korean self-propelled howitzer K9

At the end of February 2025, a delegation of a dozen South Korean military and government officials visited Ottawa to hold talks with the Canadian government about potential supplies of defense equipment. The purpose of the visit is to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries within the framework of broader strategic interests.

The South Korean delegation presented a number of proposals, including the supply of improved K9 howitzers, training aircraft, missile launchers and submarines. These proposals are part of South Korea's efforts to expand its military exports and strengthen international defense ties. 

Canada, for its part, is actively developing its defense policy and is looking for new opportunities to modernize its armed forces. Canada's capital, Ottawa, is the center of decision-making in the field of defense, where the Ministry of National Defense is located. The Canadian government is interested in purchasing advanced defense equipment to ensure the country's security and maintain its commitments to its allies.

The talks with South Korea also reflect Canada's commitment to active international defense cooperation. Canada, as a member of NATO and other international organizations, is constantly looking for ways to strengthen its defense capabilities. South Korean technologies and weapons can be an important addition to the Canadian armed forces, especially in the context of modernization and increased combat readiness.

Czech Republic begins testing Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers in France

 The Czech Republic is advancing artillery modernization with the first tests of the Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzer in France.

Designed to meet the specific operational requirements of Prague, the system is undergoing rigorous testing before being officially integrated into the Czech armed forces. This assessment, conducted at a production facility in France, marks the beginning of a process that will include live firing tests before the first units are delivered to the Czech Republic by March 2025. 

The program aims to equip the Czech Army with 62 Caesar 8x8 howitzers by the end of 2026 to enhance artillery capabilities and interoperability with NATO.

Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzer

China vs. South Korea: The battle for the global self-propelled howitzer market unfolds at IDEX in Abu Dhabi

 Competition between China and South Korea for the sale of self-propelled howitzers is intensifying: defense contractors from both countries are putting their latest models in the spotlight at one of the world's largest arms exhibitions.

This week, at the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, the Chinese company Norinco invites the public to get acquainted with its 155-mm SH16A self-propelled howitzer.

South Korea's self-propelled howitzers