Finland signs $639.4M deal with South Korea for additional howitzers

Finland has signed a government-to-government agreement with South Korea to procure additional K9 self-propelled howitzers, the Finnish Defense Ministry announced on Thursday.

The contract, signed with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), covers the acquisition of 112 surplus 155 mm K9 self-propelled howitzers along with spare parts, specialized tools, and testing equipment, according to a statement.

The total value of the deal is approximately €546.8 million ($639.4 million).

Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen said the procurement will strengthen the country's artillery capabilities in a cost-effective manner.

According to the ministry, the new systems will improve the army's firepower and its ability to provide long-range artillery support, while offering high mobility across both road and off-road conditions.

The procurement will also help replace aging towed artillery systems currently in service.

Finland previously acquired K9 howitzers in 2017 under a similar agreement with South Korea, bringing the total number of units purchased before this deal to 96.