Egypt’s drive to build a self-reliant domestic defence industry took centre stage at the Defence and Military Industries Exhibition (EDEX 2025), with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi attending a special screening of a documentary on the joint co-production of South Korea’s K9A1-EGY self-propelled howitzer system.
Strategic artillery with local impact
The K9A1-EGY, globally recognised as one of the most advanced artillery platforms, combines exceptional firepower with strategic versatility. Designed for demanding battlefield conditions, it has a range exceeding 40 kilometres and can fire multiple rounds within seconds. Egypt’s acquisition and co-production programme, formalised in February 2022, is a cornerstone of the country’s broader defence modernisation strategy, aimed at establishing a sustainable domestic defence-industrial base through joint manufacturing and technology transfer.
The programme allows Egyptian factories, engineers, and technicians to participate directly in production, ultimately enabling local manufacture. This approach not only equips the Armed Forces with cutting-edge capabilities but also enhances technological independence, operational readiness, and long-term industrial competencies.
S. Korea affirms strategic partnership
During the opening events of EDEX 2025, The Egyptian Gazette interviewed South Korean Ambassador to Egypt Kim Yong-hyun, following the screening of the K9A1-EGY, nicknamed the “Voice of Thunder.”
He described this moment as “a true honour,” praising the documentary for highlighting the strength of the bilateral partnership. He expressed satisfaction with the exhibition’s scale and noted plans to expand co-operation beyond defence into broader joint initiatives with third countries.
Ambassador Kim affirmed South Korea remains “a reliable partner” committed to fostering friendly relations, calling Egypt “an important partner in this region.” He highlighted Korea’s ambition to play a key role in Egypt’s economic development, technological advancement, and cultural exchange.
Hanwha’s commitment
Danny Oh, Deputy Senior Manager at Hanwha, confirmed plans to establish an open production line for the K9A1-EGY in Egypt, describing the initiative as a milestone in long-term co-operation. The first delivery phase, scheduled for 2026, will pave the way for deeper industrial collaboration, including additional systems such as the K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle.
Danny emphasised Hanwha’s localisation strategy, training Egyptian engineers and technicians in R&D, production, and ammunition manufacturing.
“We do not simply supply equipment; we transfer knowledge and build local capability,” he said. Egypt’s role as a gateway to African defence markets further enhances the programme’s strategic potential, positioning the country as a hub for regional defence collaboration.
