The unveiling of the first AS9 and AS10 Huntsman vehicles in Australia marks a significant step in the country’s defence capability, as the government moves towards modernising its land-based artillery systems. The vehicles, featuring AusCam camouflage markings, were showcased during a government and industry event, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, senior Australian Defence Force officials, and South Korean representatives, including retired Admiral Seungseob Sim.
Manufactured by South Korean defence company Hanwha, with significant contributions from Hyundai-Kia in their development, the first three vehicles—two AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzers and one AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicle—arrived in Australia in late 2023. The Deputy Prime Minister, speaking at the event on 27 February, emphasised the operational advancements these vehicles represent for the Australian Army.
“These vehicles replace the M777 howitzers, which date back to the 1990s. They have been a critical asset for the Australian Army, but this technology takes us to an entirely new level,” Marles stated. He highlighted the improved efficiency of the new system, which requires fewer personnel to operate. Under the current system, two howitzers require a team of 20 personnel. The Huntsman configuration reduces that number to 13 for three vehicles. The automation of the 155mm shells, each weighing approximately 50 kilograms, further enhances operational safety by removing the need for manual loading.
“This is all done in an automated way, making it safer for personnel in terms of occupational health and safety, and providing them with a more protected environment,” Marles added. “At the same time, it significantly increases the rate of fire, delivering greater lethality in a shorter timeframe. We are focused on building a more mobile and effective Army.”
The AS9 Huntsman is the Australian adaptation of the K9 Thunder, a self-propelled howitzer developed in South Korea with substantial involvement from Hyundai-Kia. Featuring a 52-calibre 155mm CN98 artillery gun, manufactured by Kia Heavy Industry, the K9 Thunder has been widely adopted by NATO allies and other militaries around the world. The AS10 resupply vehicle, based on the K10 ammunition resupply vehicle, is designed to operate in high-risk environments, featuring an advanced loading system that protects personnel from exposure to enemy fire.
However, the future scale of the program remains uncertain, with the government cancelling the second tranche of self-propelled artillery and supply vehicles. Marles defended the decision, citing the need to prioritise mobility.
“We have made it clear that what we need is a mobile Army. Difficult decisions must be made to align defence procurement with strategic objectives,” he said. “If a capability is only viable within the Australian continent, we must question its relevance. Our focus is on transportable systems that enhance our projection capabilities.”
The Huntsman vehicles are being produced with the involvement of Australian supply chain partners, including Elphinstone, Kongsberg Defence Australia, and Thales Australia. Production of hulls and turrets has commenced at Elphinstone’s facility in northern Tasmania, while Hanwha’s H-ACE production line in Geelong has also begun work.
“The technology transfer between South Korea and Australia is a key component of this program, reflecting the strong ties between our nations,” said Hanwha Defence Australia’s Acting Managing Director, Dean Michie. “We are proud to celebrate this milestone with government, Defence, and our supply chain partners at our new facility.”
The Huntsman program comes amid growing strategic cooperation between Australia and South Korea, particularly in defence manufacturing. South Korea’s presence in Australia’s defence sector has expanded beyond artillery, with other high-profile projects such as the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle. These developments parallel the increasing role of South Korean manufacturers in the civilian automotive sector, where brands such as Kia have gained prominence. The recent appearance of the Kia Tasman at the IDEX defence exhibition in Abu Dhabi suggests potential crossover between civilian and military-grade vehicle development, particularly as Australia looks to diversify its defence-industrial base.
As the Australian Army prepares for the transition to the AS9 Huntsman and AS10 resupply vehicle, attention will be on how these acquisitions fit into broader strategic plans. The shift towards automation, increased mobility, and international collaboration signals a significant transformation in the country’s defence posture.
