Estonia Welcomes Its Inaugural K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers

At the conclusion of August, the inaugural K9 Kõu self-propelled howitzers arrived in Estonia from South Korea. Following modifications, these assets will be utilized by the artillery battalion of the 1st Infantry Brigade. In total, 18 self-propelled howitzers procured by the Defense Forces are set to arrive in Estonia over the next three years.

As articulated by Minister of Defense Jüri Luik, the procurement of K9 Kõu self-propelled howitzers exemplifies the complexities involved in developing new capabilities and the implications therein. “The initiative, which began two years ago, has advanced to a stage where we can begin technical alterations to tailor these pieces to our requirements. This stands as one of the most crucial defense acquisitions of the Defense Forces in recent times, aimed predominantly at enhancing our indirect fire capabilities,” stated Luik.

“Estonia, in partnership with Finland, has already secured significant weapon systems and equipment, like air surveillance radars. Now, we have added the first K9 self-propelled howitzers from South Korea, which will replace the 155mm artillery within the 1st Infantry Brigade Artillery Battalion,” commented Lieutenant Colonel Kaarel Mäesalu, Commander of the Mobile Artillery Procurement Project. (The K9s are being acquired second-hand from the South Korean Army—Ed.)

“The K9 is a weapon system that is highly compatible with Estonian conditions and modern standards, first introduced by South Korea in 1999. This system also adapts well to the Estonian climate, as South Korea shares similar seasonal variations and significant temperature fluctuations,” added Lieutenant Colonel Mäesalu.

The self-propelled howitzers that have already arrived in Estonia, along with those scheduled for delivery from South Korea in the next three years, have been maintained and are operationally ready; however, upon their arrival in Estonia, they will initially undergo modifications and repainting. Subsequently, they will be assigned to the 1st Infantry Brigade Artillery Battalion, which is transitioning into a self-propelled unit.

In total, Estonia is securing 18 self-propelled howitzers at a total cost of 83 million euros, which also encompasses the training of instructors and maintenance personnel, as well as special tools and spare parts.

“We will initiate the overhaul of the cannons in February of next year, once we have identified a contractual partner for the current procurement. The K9 Kõu self-propelled howitzers are integral to the entire capability enhancement. Furthermore, we will also acquire recovery tanks and armored mobile command vehicles in the forthcoming years,” remarked Ivar Janson, head of the armor technology department at the State Defense Investment Center.

The K9 Kõu self-propelled howitzers boast high throughput, tracked mobility, robust armor protection, and significant firepower. With a lifespan of 45 years, the Estonian artillery can effectively utilize these systems for at least another 30 years.

Due to the armored and self-propelled nature of the guns, this enhances the protection of the artillery crew and allows for expedited maneuvers, consequently improving both survivability and firepower. The weapon system is straightforward and dependable, suitable for operation by both conscripts and reservists.

Besides Estonia, K9 self-propelled howitzers are actively employed in South Korea, Turkey, India, Finland, Norway, and Australia. Poland has integrated a 155mm KRAB weapon system mounted on the K9 chassis.

Technical specifications:
— Combat weight: 47 tons
— Specific ground pressure: Less than 1 kg / cm2
— Dimensions (length / width / height in meters): 12.28 / 3.5 / 2.75
— Engine power: 750 kW / 1000 hp
— Power to weight ratio: 21.3 hp / t
— Maximum speed: 65 km / h
— Operational range: 360 km
— Caliber / barrel length: 155 / 52 calibers
— Firing range: 40 km (depending on ammunition type)
— Loading mechanism: Semi-automatic
— Firing mechanism: Automatic
— Production commenced: 1999
— Crew complement: 5 (commander, layer, assistant layer, loader, and driver)

Tactical indicators:
— Time in-battery: 30 – 60 sec
— Time out of battery: 60 sec
— Maximum firing rate: 8 rounds / min
— Sustained firing rate: 2 shots / min
— One gun capable of engaging three targets simultaneously
— Firing azimuth: 360 degrees