U.S. Army, Hanwha unveil XM1776 Mobile Tactical Cannon
On October 12, during the Association of the U.S. Army’s 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition (AUSA), Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA) and the U.S. Army formally introduced the XM1776 Mobile Tactical Cannon (MTC), a significant adaptation of Hanwha’s K9 Mobile Howitzer.
In conjunction with the unveiling, HDUSA confirmed that the U.S. Army has placed an order for nine prototype wheeled XM1776 MTC systems, with an option for an additional nine units. The XM1776 MTC represents a state-of-the-art, quickly deployable 155mm artillery system that aligns with the U.S. Army’s modernization goals.
Mike Smith, COO of Hanwha Defense USA and President of Land Systems, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The XM1776 Mobile Tactical Cannon represents the launch of the U.S. Army’s new long-range precision fires modernization effort and its powerful partnership with HDUSA to produce this system at speed and scale. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Hanwha is committed to delivering industrial strength, mature capability, and proven technologies that accelerate U.S. production and expand America’s artillery industrial base.”
To further support this initiative, HDUSA is establishing a Phase I site in Opelika, Alabama. This facility will serve as the U.S. integration and testing center for the XM1776 MTC and Hanwha’s K9 Mobile Howitzers. In a bid to enhance supply chain localization, company leaders will engage with over 70 existing and prospective suppliers to form an Artillery Industrial Base Coalition in the U.S.
Having already deployed more than 2,500 K9 Howitzers globally, Hanwha is positioned well to collaborate with the U.S. Department of War. This partnership aims to build a high-volume industrial capacity based on Hanwha’s production capabilities, which are established under wartime conditions. The company’s global defense presence is expected to bolster U.S. readiness and increase interoperability with allies currently using K9 systems.
As the U.S. ramps up its focus on enhancing the defense industrial base, HDUSA believes that its blend of proven capability and dedication ensures both immediate needs and longer-term benefits.
About Hanwha Defense USA
Hanwha Defense USA, a subsidiary of Hanwha Aerospace, delivers proven platforms characterized by a successful track record across various global markets and supply chains. The company is committed to developing local workforces capable of supporting the complete product lifecycle to meet the demands of warfighters and industrial partners. HDUSA is focused on expanding its U.S. presence through organic growth, strategic partnerships, and targeted business acquisitions.
For more information, visit: www.hanwhadefenseusa.com
