Helsinki: Finland has signed a government-to-government agreement with South Korea to procure additional K9 self-propelled howitzers, the Finnish Defense Ministry announced on Thursday. The contract, signed with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), covers the acquisition of 112 surplus 155 mm K9 self-propelled howitzers along with spare parts, specialized tools, and testing equipment, according to a statement. The total value of the deal is approximately pound 546.8 million ($639.4 million).

According to Anadolu Agency, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen stated that the procurement will strengthen the country’s artillery capabilities in a cost-effective manner. The ministry noted that the new systems will enhance the army’s firepower and its ability to provide long-range artillery support, while offering high mobility across both road and off-road conditions. The procurement will also assist in replacing aging towed artillery systems currently in service.

Finland had previously acquired K9 howitzers in 2017 under a similar agreement with South Korea, bringing the total number of units purchased before this deal to 96.