In 2021 Australia signed a contract with Hanwha Defense Australia for the production of the AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzers and the AS10 reloading vehicles. The contract stated that 30 howitzers and 15 reloading vehicles would be delivered to the country. The production will begin in 2024.
The AS9 Huntsman is an Australian version of the South Korean K9 self-propelled vehicle. The gun is based on K9 VIDAR versions that are developed for Norway. However, some changes were necessary to cover Australian requirements. The AS9 feature better armor and improved suspension.
Power of Fire
The AS9 Huntsman is equipped with a 155mm gun. The weapon is compatible with every 155mm NATO ammunition. The maximum range reaches 30km with the HE shells and 40km with rocket-guided shells. It is believed that the system can achieve a maximum range of 60km with the right shells. The maximum rate of fire is stated to be 6 shots per minute. The AS9 Huntsman is capable of shooting many shells at once. The howitzer can shoot 3 shells in 15 seconds. Each of them can have a different trajectory but will reach the target at the same time.
The AS9 Huntsman is equipped with an automatic fire control system and an internal navigation system. When the system is traveling, 60 seconds are needed in order before being able to fire. When the system is ready, it can shoot in the next 30 seconds.
The AS9 Huntsman has an iron hull and turret, while there are extra armor kits. The basic armor protects it from small arms fires and shells. Some sources state that the AS9 Huntsman is the most well-protected weapon of its kind. The howitzer is also equipped with the NBC protection system.
The Australian gun has a remotely-controller turret with a heavy 12.7mm machine gun. Another 7.62mm machine gun is located on the roof.
The Huntsman machine gun is being operated by a crew of 5, including the commander, the gunner, the assistant gunner, the reloader, and the driver.
The weapon features the German MTU MT 881 Ka500 diesel engine of 1,000hp. The same engine is being used by the PzH 2000 howitzer. Last but not least, the AS9 Huntsman has a hydropneumatic suspension.
