Army taps Hanwha K9 for mobile howitzer prototype program

The Army awarded Hanwha Defense USA a contract to deliver six prototype Mobile Tactical Cannon (MTC) systems—with an option for 12 more—worth up to $233 million, for testing in a self-propelled howitzer modernization program to replace the M777 and M109A7. The prototypes will undergo operational experiments to gauge performance, reliability, and supportability, with results guiding future fielding. Competing bids came from Elbit America (with Anduril and Oshkosh Defense) using the SIGMA platform, Leonardo DRS with the Caesar, KNDS with the Caesar, Rheinmetall with the Remote Controlled Howitzer (RCH) 155 mm, and BAE Systems with the Archer. Hanwha is establishing a production/test facility in Opelika, AL, as the Army pursues a roadshow-style evaluation after years of failed self-propelled howitzer efforts (XM2001 Crusader, NLOS Cannon, ERCA).