Hanwha Aerospace (KRX:012450) presented digital warfare concepts for the K9 self-propelled howitzer at the K9 User Club in Estonia Wednesday, proposing drone reconnaissance and precision targeting systems that extend the platform's useful life by two decades. Seven nations operate the K9, and the vendor is positioning advanced fire control and AI-assisted targeting as low-cost upgrades versus replacing fielded systems.
The K9 User Club, now in its fifth year, brings together operator nations and contractors to share maintenance techniques and evaluate upgrade paths. Hanwha's pitch combines drone feeds, AI targeting, and digital logistics to modernize Korea's most successful defence export.
Hanwha Aerospace's market capitalisation was ₩54.0 trillion at Thursday's close. First-half operating income of ₩177 billion reflected timing of defence contract deliveries and export business mix. The K9 programme has shipped roughly 2,500 systems to date across Korea and export operators.
Defence vendors globally are pitching software and sensor upgrades as cost-effective ways to extend weapon-system lifecycles and sustain export relationships.
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| Symbol | Last Price |
|---|---|
| 012450HANWHA AEROSPACE CO., LTD. | ₩1,055,000 +0.8% |