Poland has received all South Korean 155 mm K9 tracked self-propelled howitzers ordered under the initial 2022 contract. These 212 units were purchased to fill the capability gap caused by equipment transfers to Ukraine as part of military aid, and are now helping Poland build Europe's most powerful artillery fleet.
The story showcases South Korea's speed in delivering defense industry products. The latest systems have been deployed with the 1st Mazurska Artillery Brigade of the Polish Army.
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Poland paid $2.4 billion for these 212 K9s, amounting to $11.3 million per unit. Given that the first systems arrived just months after signing the contract and the purchase was completed in only three years, this is a remarkable result.
In December 2023, Poland ordered 152 more South Korean self-propelled howitzers. Their delivery is scheduled to continue until 2027, meaning another two years of transfers.
It is no surprise that many countries choose K9 howitzers, K2 tanks, and other South Korean weapons, given their high production rates and competitive prices. At the same time, a high degree of localization can be offered if needed to secure a contract.
On the other hand, not every country receives them quickly. Estonia had to wait two years for its self-propelled howitzers. Nevertheless, the delivery was still relatively fast, and there have been no major complaints about timing.
As for Poland, the country seeks to build Europe's most powerful artillery fleet. This goal seems realistic, given that once all orders are completed, Poland will operate 576 K9 and Krab self-propelled howitzers alongside 310 high-precision K239 Homar‑K and M142 HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems.
The supply of ammunition continues to be a key issue, with delays in the localization of South Korean missiles. The situation with artillery shells is improving, as new production capacities are being actively deployed in partnership with the United Kingdom, though this will take time.
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