Norway plans to nearly double K9 howitzer fleet with $534 million acquisition

Norway is proposing to nearly double its fleet of K9 Thunder howitzers by acquiring 24 additional units from South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace, as part of a broader defense investment package totaling 17 billion kroner (approximately $1.6 billion). This acquisition aims to enhance Norway's military capabilities in the strategically important High North, particularly through the development of a new artillery battalion within the Finnmark Brigade. The proposal, which also includes upgrades to mine countermeasures and military infrastructure, underscores the seriousness of Norway's current security situation, according to Defence Minister Tore Sandvik. If approved by the Norwegian Parliament, this investment reflects the government's commitment to strengthening national defense in line with NATO obligations. Currently, Norway operates 28 K9 howitzers and 14 K10 ammunition resupply vehicles, and the additional procurement will significantly bolster the army's firepower and rapid-response capabilities. The spending plan additionally allocates funds for modernizing maritime mine countermeasures to secure underwater infrastructure.