Hanwha to Build K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer Factory in Romania by 2026
Hanwha Aerospace's CEO Jae-Il Son confirmed that production of K9 self-propelled howitzers for Romania is on schedule, with the factory in Petrești set to begin construction by late January 2026. The K9 and K10 systems are currently in advanced manufacturing stages in Changwon.
The Petrești facility will serve as Hanwha's first European base for ground systems, focusing on production, testing, R&D, and maintenance. Discussions are ongoing between Romania and South Korea to enhance defense cooperation, including local production partnerships under the EU SAFE program.
A $1 billion contract was signed in July 2024 for 54 K9 howitzers and 36 K10 support vehicles, with deliveries starting in 2027. The Romanian government aims to leverage these investments for local job creation and economic sustainability. Hanwha plans to establish a comprehensive industrial cooperation framework in Romania, contributing to NATO's eastern flank security.
