Army crews tested the AS9 through a series of realistic integrated warfighting activities. The event examined the mobility and firepower of the protected artillery system within a larger fighting force.
The AS9 combines the weapon and its mobility in a single fighting vehicle, unlike a towed artillery system. The Army said the platform represents an increase in capability and supports its transition towards a modern integrated force.
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Frewin, commanding officer of 4RAA, said the AS9 gave commanders more combat options than a towed gun. He described its introduction as a game-changer for the regiment.
“It’s an incredible piece of equipment. It’s loud, faster in and out of action, and can range a long way and has taken a huge leap in the capabilities for this brigade,” Frewin said.
Frewin said firing speed and rapid relocation were central to the AS9’s tactical value. “It comes out of a hide to a firing position in seconds, fires off rounds faster than the M777, and moves very quickly back into a hide, and that means if an enemy does identify us, they are unable to respond in time before the AS9 has already moved to a new position.”
