# U.S. Army Procures K9MH Howitzer Prototypes

Hanwha Defense USA has secured a contract awarded in August 2026 to supply six K9MH wheeled self-propelled howitzer prototypes to the U.S. Army under the Mobile Tactical Cannon program, with an option for 12 additional units. This procurement marks the first overseas combat validation of the automated turret technology developed for the next-generation K9A2 howitzer, adapted for wheeled platforms to enhance firing rates and reduce crew requirements. The prototypes will undergo a four-year operational evaluation to assess their suitability for potential deployment and to replace the current M777 towed howitzers.

- **Why this matters:** This contract introduces advanced automated turret technology into U.S. Army artillery capabilities, signaling a shift toward modernization with increased automation and mobility.
- Procurement professionals should note the opportunity for follow-on production if the evaluation supports full deployment, indicating potential long-term contract growth.
- Defense contractors specializing in artillery systems and automated weapon platforms may find strategic entry points for collaboration or competition.
- The evaluation period provides a timeline for industry stakeholders to align development and support services with U.S. Army modernization priorities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Army (U.S. Army)
- South Korea's Agency for Defense Development

### Vendors
- Hanwha Defense USA (prime contractor)

### Key Quotes
> It's a minimally modified version of the K9A2 turret, designed so that technology developed for the K9A2 can be applied not only to tracked self-propelled howitzers but also to wheeled vehicles.
> — Hanwha Defense USA official

### Sources
- [Hanwha to Supply 6 Mobile Tactical Cannon Prototypes to U.S. Army — First Overseas Combat Validation of K9A2 Automated Turret Technology — BigGo Finance](https://finance.biggo.com/news/e60f7420-b76c-464e-9a55-457ea44f8697) - finance.biggo.com