Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) has unveiled the first three Australian-assembled AS9 Huntsman Self-Propelled Howitzers at its Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE) in Geelong, Victoria. This marks the return of advanced military vehicle manufacturing to the region.
These new vehicles join an initial batch of three units—comprising two AS9s and one AS10—manufactured in South Korea and announced in February last year. The locally built howitzers are the result of a collaborative supply chain featuring both Australian and international partners.
Following their production, the vehicles will now undergo further testing and training activities as they prepare for service. HDA is actively working with Australian Army soldiers at the H-ACE training wing to develop operators and maintainers.
“Seeing the first Australian made AS9s come off the production line and drive their first laps around our test track is a milestone that we’re all very proud of,” said Ben Hudson, CEO of HDA and UK/Europe. “This program will see a game changing capability introduced to the Australian Army underpinned by a strategic partner in Hanwha Defence Australia.”
The initial Batch 1 vehicles have already spent the past 12 months supporting driver and maintainer training, alongside verification activities such as firing trials. As new vehicles roll off the line, they will be progressively added to the training program.
The AS9 Huntsman features a proven 52-calibre 155mm gun system, already in service with multiple nations including NATO allies. It has been refined using operational experience from the global fleet of over 2,400 K9 and K10 vehicles, the world’s most widely used self-propelled howitzer.
Complementing the AS9 is the AS10 Huntsman Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (AARV). Designed for high protection and manoeuvrability, it incorporates a unique loading system that reduces soldier exposure to enemy fire while minimising physical strain on crews.
Local manufacturing partners including AME, Bisalloy Steel, Elphinstone, and Thales Australia have contributed to the project, working alongside international suppliers. This industrial collaboration represents a sustained investment in Australia’s defence manufacturing capability.
“The technology transfer on the LAND 8116 program between South Korea and Australia has been a pilot program in many ways, demonstrating the deepening relationship between the two nations,” Mr Hudson said.
The first Australian-made AS10 ammunition resupply vehicle is expected to be completed later this year.
