Norway boosts military arsenal with CAD 2.2 billion upgrade

The Norwegian government announced an investment plan for the modernization and expansion of the armed forces valued at CAD 2.2 billion. This decision stems from the need to strengthen the country's defence in the face of growing security threats.

The plans involve implementing new projects worth CAD 925 million and expanding existing ones with an additional CAD 1.3 billion. Among them is the purchase of additional K9 VIDAR self-propelled howitzers for the artillery battalion in Finnmark.

K9 VIDAR (versatile indirect artillery system) is the local name for the K9A1 Thunder self-propelled howitzer with modified fire control and communication systems adapted to Norwegian requirements. It's noteworthy that the K9A1 Thunder is a development of the original K9 Thunder, whose history dates back to the 1980s. It was developed by Koreans to replace American M109 systems with greater capabilities.

This development resulted in a system weighing approximately 52 tonnes with a tracked chassis, equipped with a turret with a 155 mm calibre gun featuring a barrel length of 52 calibres. This allows firing up to 6 rounds per minute and making three shots in MRSI mode. The firing range varies based on the ammunition, but even with the simplest shells like the DM121, the range reaches about 30 km, and with slightly more expensive shells with a base bleed, it increases to 40 km.

It's also possible to strike targets at distances of 50 to 60 km using rocket-assisted projectiles like the M549A1 or guided projectiles like the M982 Excalibur. Additionally, it is feasible to use regular shells enhanced with M1156 PGK modules.

Norway is joining other customers of the South Korean self-propelled howitzer after countries like Poland, Finland, Egypt, and the Baltic states. This proven system substantially enhances firepower, as demonstrated by the war in Ukraine, where artillery continues to be the "god of war".