Hyundai WIA showcased a mock-up of its 105mm self-propelled howitzer at the International Defense Industry Exhibition (MSPO) in Poland, which concluded on Sept. 6. The howitzer is mounted on Kia’s Korea Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV), recognized for its mobility in challenging terrains and confined spaces. The 105mm howitzer, valued for its agility and firepower, is drawing interest from European countries looking to strengthen their ground forces, following the successful exports of South Korea’s K2 tanks and K9 howitzers.
The vehicle, a shortened version of Kia’s KLTV weighing 5,900 kilograms, is modified to resemble a pickup truck and is equipped with a lighter, upgraded version of Hyundai WIA’s KH178 howitzer. Development of the system began in December 2022. This howitzer differs from the K105A1 “Pungik,” a self-propelled howitzer currently deployed by South Korea’s military and produced by Hanwha Aerospace.
Hyundai WIA’s 105mm howitzer, developed in partnership with Kia, is noted for its superior mobility. Unlike track-based systems such as the K9, which rely on armor to withstand enemy attacks, the wheeled howitzer relies on rapid movement to evade strikes. It can fire up to 10 rounds per minute with a maximum range of 14.7 kilometers using standard ammunition. With rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP), it can hit targets up to 18 kilometers away. The system is equipped with GPS-guided automatic fire control and an inertial navigation system (INS) for precise targeting. It also integrates with battlefield communication systems (B2CS and TMMR) to enhance communication and coordination during missions.
Poland signed a contract with Kia last year to supply the LPR, the Polish export version of the KLTV, which serves as the platform for the self-propelled howitzer. The first batch of vehicles was delivered in April, with all 400 units set for delivery by 2030. Hyundai WIA also produces the barrels for the K2 tank and K9 howitzer.
While the firepower of the 105mm wheeled howitzer is less than that of the K9, its ability to shoot and quickly relocate enhances its tactical effectiveness. The system is particularly well-suited for modern warfare, including drone-based operations. Unlike towed artillery, which often lacks time to evade attacks from kamikaze drones or glide bombs, the wheeled howitzer can move, deploy, fire, and retreat swiftly. Additionally, it is more cost-effective to produce and maintain than tracked systems, offering higher production efficiency.
