Egypt has launched localized production of South Korean 155mm K9 self-propelled howitzers. The production is taking place at the unique Military Factory 200, where American M1A1 Abrams tanks were previously manufactured and are currently serviced.
Relevant footage from the facility appeared on social media, showing work on the vehicles. According to publicly available information, deliveries of these systems are expected to begin in the first half of 2026.
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The Egyptian modification is designated K9A1EGY. Among its main differences, it will feature the South Korean SMV1000 engine, which will replace the German one and will also be localized by Egypt.
This engine is also installed on the AS21 IFV for Australia. Other features include improved adaptation for use in desert regions, as well as expanded compatibility with modern ammunition.
Typical for such projects, the first batch was manufactured in South Korea with subsequent localization. Egypt and South Korean company Hanwha Systems signed a contract for K9 SPG procurement back in 2022 worth $1.7 billion. Official volumes are not disclosed, but according to some sources they amount to up to 200 vehicles, including K10 ammunition supply vehicles as well as K11 fire control vehicles.
Interestingly, Egyptian military displayed their first artillery system from South Korea during a parade back in 2023. However, they officially announced receiving them only in 2025.
Military Factory 200, or Egyptian Tank Plant No. 200, will be responsible for K9 SPG localization. The facility has quite good competencies, as it was once responsible for manufacturing American M1A1 Abrams tanks and is essentially the only such enterprise outside the United States.
Currently, these industrial facilities are still involved in work on the Abrams, though this concerns servicing and modernization. The contract with the South Korean company will help restore production of new equipment at the plant.
The first K9 SPG under the AS9 designation rolled off production facilities in Australia. A corresponding plant is also being built in Romania for order localization, demonstrating South Korean companies' willingness to organize production in other countries.
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