Australian Army Integrates New AS9 Huntsman Howitzers to Enhance Capabilities
The Australian Army has commenced training with the AS9 Huntsman 155mm self-propelled howitzer, marking the first time this artillery system has been operated on Australian soil. This development is part of a broader transformation of the 3rd Brigade, which is set to receive a range of new military equipment. The AS9, an Australian adaptation of South Korea's K9 howitzer, extends the army's artillery range to approximately 25 miles. The acquisition includes 30 AS9 howitzers and 15 AS10 ammunition resupply vehicles, with production primarily occurring at a new facility near Melbourne. The 3rd Brigade is also set to receive M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks, AS21 Redback infantry fighting vehicles, and Boxer 8x8 combat reconnaissance vehicles, among others. The first batch of AS9 howitzers is expected to be operational by 2026, with full delivery by 2027.