U.S. Army leadership visits Hanwha Aerospace sites
The Honorable Brent G. Ingraham, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)), led a delegation to Hanwha Aerospace’s defense production facilities in Changwon, South Korea on August 26. The purpose of the visit was to assess the company’s manufacturing capabilities in artillery, rocket systems, and other land defense platforms.
During the visit, the delegation toured the K9 production line, where K9MH systems are currently being produced, and observed advanced automated manufacturing processes, including robotic welding, which contribute to Hanwha’s production efficiency and output quality.
The representatives witnessed live mobility demonstrations of the K9MH and K9A1 models, as well as a demonstration of the Chunmoo multiple rocket launch system. Furthermore, they explored Hanwha’s extensive land systems portfolio and engaged in discussions focused on enhancing the U.S. Army’s modernization objectives.
Michael Coulter, CEO of Hanwha Defense USA, commented on the significance of Hanwha’s capabilities, stating, “Hanwha brings proven manufacturing capabilities and global production experience that will strengthen deterrence and support the U.S. industrial base. For more than seven decades, the U.S.-Korea alliance has been a cornerstone of peace and security, and defense industrial cooperation is an increasingly important pillar of that alliance.”
The Changwon facility serves as the production center for the K9 family and demonstrates substantial serial-production capacity achieved through concurrent programs for Korea, Poland, Australia, Egypt, and other allied nations. This showcases Hanwha’s manufacturing expertise that will be applied in its U.S. operations.
Hanwha is accelerating its phased localization strategy aimed at boosting U.S.-based production for the K9MH. The integration and test facility in Opelika, Alabama, functions as the company’s U.S. artillery manufacturing network, with plans for future phases as production increases to fulfill the U.S. Army’s requirements.
About Hanwha Aerospace
Hanwha Aerospace is a leading global aerospace and defense company that offers an extensive range of products and services, including land combat vehicles like the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer and the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle, various weapons systems, munitions, aircraft engine components, and advanced technology services. As South Korea’s largest aerospace and defense firm, Hanwha Aerospace is dedicated to researching, developing, and manufacturing cutting-edge technology systems while also leading the nation’s space initiatives.
For more information, visit: http://www.hanwhaaerospace.com
