K9 Thunder, a South Korean 155mm self-propelled howitzer (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)
South Korea’s gearing up for a big leap forward in the artillery game this year, folks.
They’re about to kick off mass production of a spanking new 155mm artillery shell that’s got extended range written all over it.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) dropped this bombshell (pun intended), and let me tell you, it’s been a long time coming.
We’re talking about a project that kicked off back in 2014 with the Poongsan Corporation riding shotgun.
Fast forward to last August, and they’ve nailed the combat suitability of this beast.
It’s clear South Korea’s not just playing defense anymore; they’re pushing the envelope on military tech.
The Beast Unleashed: Extended-Range Artillery
This new artillery shell is no ordinary round. We’re looking at something that can hit targets up to 60 kilometers away. That’s 37 miles for those who don’t dig the metric system.
Compared to what’s currently in the arsenal, this baby extends the reach by more than 30 percent.
South Korea’s gearing up for a big leap forward in the artillery game this year, folks.
They’re about to kick off mass production of a spanking new 155mm artillery shell that’s got extended range written all over it.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) dropped this bombshell (pun intended), and let me tell you, it’s been a long time coming.
We’re talking about a project that kicked off back in 2014 with the Poongsan Corporation riding shotgun.
Fast forward to last August, and they’ve nailed the combat suitability of this beast.
It’s clear South Korea’s not just playing defense anymore; they’re pushing the envelope on military tech.
The Beast Unleashed: Extended-Range Artillery
This new artillery shell is no ordinary round. We’re looking at something that can hit targets up to 60 kilometers away. That’s 37 miles for those who don’t dig the metric system.
Compared to what’s currently in the arsenal, this baby extends the reach by more than 30 percent.
How’d they pull that off? A mix of base bleed technology and a rocket motor that cuts drag and boosts the shell to distances that were just a pipedream before.
It’s like turbocharging a muscle car but for artillery.
South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration will award Poongsan a contract this year to begin mass production of their new extended range 155mm artillery shell. Development has just concluded, achieving a 60km range when fired by the K9 SPH.https://t.co/a3opgK3723pic.twitter.com/NJ9ifg0enF
Now, why does this matter? For starters, it cranks up the volume on South Korea’s defense capabilities. But there’s more to it than just flexing military muscle.
There’s a golden opportunity for exports here. The K9 self-propelled howitzer, South Korea’s pride and joy in the defense sector, is going to get a major upgrade with this new ammo.
We’re talking about stretching its reach an extra 20 kilometers beyond its current ammo.
That’s a game-changer on the battlefield.
Full Steam Ahead: Commitment to Innovation
South Korea’s not just dipping its toes in the water here; they’re diving in headfirst.
They’re already eyeing a deal with Poongsan to get this shell into production later this year.
It’s a bold move, but it’s got the backing of the big guns in the government and the military.
They see the potential in this tech not just for beefing up their own arsenal but for carving out a larger slice of the global arms market.
A Global Powerhouse: South Korea’s Strategic Vision
DAPA’s head honcho, Eom Dong-hwan, laid it out pretty clearly.
This isn’t just about upping the defense ante; it’s about securing a spot on the world stage in the arms market.
5/ South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) stated on February 6 that it plans to sign a contract with ammunition producer Poongsan in 2024 to mass-produce 155mm shells that have an extended range of 60 kilometers.
— Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) February 7, 2024
The K9 howitzer, already a heavyweight in the defense export game, is about to get even more appealing to international buyers with this new extended-range shell in its corner.
Reshaping Modern Warfare: The Strategic Edge
So, what’s the big picture here? South Korea is stepping into a new chapter of artillery warfare with the rollout of this extended-range 155mm shell.
It’s a bold statement in military innovation, pushing the boundaries of range, precision, and firepower.
This isn’t just about having the bigger stick; it’s about rewriting the rules of engagement, giving South Korea a strategic edge that could reshape modern warfare.
And with the door wide open for international partnerships and exports, we’re looking at a whole new ballgame in the global defense market.
In the end, this move by South Korea is a clear signal they’re not just participants in the global defense arena; they’re aiming to be leaders.
With cutting-edge tech like this extended-range artillery shell, they’re on track to do just that.
It’s a testament to their commitment to innovation, strategic foresight, and the pursuit of excellence on the world stage.
For those of us who’ve been around the block a few times, seen a few things, and know the value of superior firepower, it’s a development worth watching.
And for our friends and foes alike on the global stage, it’s a reminder: in the game of modern warfare, never underestimate the power of innovation and a well-placed long-range artillery shell.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.