Vietnam and South Korea are on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking $300 million arms deal, marking the first defense contract between the two nations, according to South Korean media reports.
Yonhap News Agency, citing industry and government sources, reported that South Korea plans to deliver 20 K9 self-propelled howitzers to Vietnam under the agreement. If confirmed, Vietnam would become the 10th country to acquire the K9 Thunder artillery system.
Vietnamese sources revealed that a Vietnam People’s Army team underwent K9 system training in South Korea last November, reports Radio Free Asia (RFA).
In March 2023, Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang visited South Korea and observed a K9 howitzer demonstration at the 7th Artillery Brigade of the Republic of Korea’s army. During his visit, he also met with representatives from Hanwha Aerospace, the K9’s manufacturer.
Modernizing Vietnam’s Military
A Vietnamese source, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the matter, stated that the deal could include K10 ammunition transport vehicles alongside the howitzers. Additionally, Vietnam aims to secure technology transfers as part of the agreement.
Vietnam has been actively diversifying its arms suppliers, reducing reliance on Russia, its primary source of military equipment since the Cold War. The shift comes as Moscow faces international sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine. The new weapon systems are also intended to replace aging equipment from the 1960s.
The K9 Thunder, primarily in its upgraded K9A1 variant, is a 47-ton self-propelled howitzer operated by a five-member crew. It boasts a firing range of 30 to 56 kilometers (19 to 35 miles) and a top speed of 67 km/h (42 mph). If the deal proceeds, Vietnam will be the first Southeast Asian nation to purchase the K9 Thunder.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Vietnam and South Korea elevated their relationship to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” in December 2022, reflecting deepening trust and cooperation. South Korea has previously transferred two Pohang-class corvettes to the Vietnamese navy in 2017-2018 and a Han River-class vessel to the Vietnamese coast guard.
This latest arms deal would further bolster defense collaboration between the two nations while contributing to Vietnam’s military modernization efforts.
