Bucharest: The chief of South Korea's defense procurement agency attended a groundbreaking ceremony for a plant intended to produce K9 self-propelled howitzers in Romania, as announced by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). This event is a follow-up to a significant export deal signed in 2024.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ceremony took place approximately 18 months after South Korean defense firm Hanwha Aerospace Co. secured a 1.4 trillion-won (US$1 billion) agreement with Romania in July 2024. This deal involves supplying 54 K9s and 36 K10 armored ammunition resupply vehicles to the European nation.
The agreement includes the establishment of a local production plant in Romania, reflecting efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in the arms industry and increase international arms exports. DAPA Minister Lee Yong-cheol emphasized the importance of local production in strengthening the arms industry capabilities of partner countries.
Minister Lee remarked, "The local production of K9 self-propelled howitzer is a case that demonstrates how South Korea seeks to strengthen its partner country's arms industry capabilities." He also noted that DAPA would continue to support mutually beneficial cooperation for South Korean defense firms and partner countries, leveraging the companies' localization strategies.
During his two-day visit to Romania, Lee engaged in discussions with senior government and parliamentary officials, including the defense and economy ministers. The talks focused on enhancing practical cooperation between South Korea and Romania.
South Korea is currently aiming to export Hanwha's Redback infantry fighting vehicle and Hyundai Rotem Co.'s K2 battle tank as part of Romania's efforts to modernize its armored assets.