According to Canadian press reports from March, a South Korean delegation of defence officials and industry representatives travelled to Ottawa to discuss enhanced defence cooperation. The talks reportedly included proposals covering the K9 artillery system, military training aircraft, multiple launch rocket systems, and submarines.
The K9 Thunder, produced by Hanwha Aerospace, is recognised as one of the world’s most advanced self-propelled artillery platforms. It is fully compatible with NATO-standard munitions, a key requirement for Canada’s military, which operates closely with NATO allies.
The system is already in use or on order in countries such as Australia, Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Egypt, India, and Turkey. Its proven performance in cold-weather conditions in Norway and Finland is seen as an advantage for operations in Canada’s northern regions.
South Korean officials highlighted the K9’s “proven operational track record, ease of integration with allied forces, and adaptability to Canada’s defence needs.” The talks in Ottawa indicate Seoul views this as a strategic chance to expand its defence relationship with Canada.
As Canada proceeds with evaluating new artillery systems, the K9 Thunder’s capabilities and interoperability within NATO frameworks position it as a strong candidate. Its potential inclusion in Canada’s defence plans could mark a significant shift in the country’s procurement strategy.
