In August 2022, Poland signed a $2.4 billion deal with Hanwha for the delivery of 212 K9A1 self-propelled howitzers with deliveries in the period of 2022-2026. The contract also covers training and a logistic package, as well as a large batch of 155mm artillery ammunition. The number of artillery shells ordered by Poland under this contract has not been disclosed, but Poland’s Armament Agency said it is “several tens of thousands” of shells.
The first batch of 24 K9A1 artillery systems was delivered to Poland in December 2022. The second batch of 12 howitzers arrived in Poland in February, and the third batch of another 12 guns – in March.
K9A1 artillery systems operated by the Polish Armed Forces are equipped with Integrated Combat Management Systems (ICMS) TOPAZ, developed by the Polish defence company WB Group.
The K9 self-propelled howitzer has been developed by DAPA (Defence Acquisition Program Administration) and Hanwha Aerospace. These artillery systems are currently operated by the armed forces of seven countries worldwide, including five NATO members (Poland, Norway, Estonia, Finland, and Turkey).
