Land

Australia Advances Mobile Artillery with AS9 Huntsman Howitzer Test

DEFCROS News

09 Jun 2026 — 1 min read

Image: armyrecognition

First Live Fire Test of AS9 Huntsman

Australia has successfully conducted the first live fire test of the AS9 Huntsman 155mm howitzer, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to enhance its mobile artillery capabilities. This event took place as part of the Australian Army's ongoing initiatives to develop and produce advanced military equipment locally. The AS9 Huntsman is designed to provide enhanced protection and mobility for artillery units, allowing for more effective operations in diverse environments.

Context and Analysis

The AS9 Huntsman represents a leap forward in Australia’s artillery technology, reflecting a commitment to modernizing its defense forces. By producing this artillery system domestically, Australia aims to strengthen its self-reliance and reduce dependency on foreign military equipment. The live fire test demonstrates the operational viability of the howitzer, showcasing its potential to meet the evolving demands of contemporary warfare.

Furthermore, the introduction of the AS9 Huntsman aligns with broader defense strategies focused on enhancing operational readiness and responsiveness. The system is expected to play a crucial role in joint military exercises and collaborations with allied forces, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region where security dynamics are increasingly complex. The ability to deploy mobile artillery effectively can significantly impact tactical decision-making on the battlefield.

Why it matters: The successful testing of the AS9 Huntsman howitzer underscores Australia’s determination to bolster its defense capabilities amidst a rapidly changing security landscape. This development raises questions about future defense collaborations and the potential for export opportunities in the global arms market. Analysts will be watching how this advancement influences regional military balance and Australia's role in collective defense initiatives.

Sources: Armyrecognition, Overt Defense -, The Times of India, Defense News, and defence.gov.au

Rheinmetall Launches UK Gun Hall in Telford with British Defense Secretary Present

Rheinmetall Expands UK Operations Rheinmetall officially inaugurated the new ‘UK Gun Hall’ in Telford, attended by British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting. This facility aims to enhance the company's capabilities in armaments production within the UK, reinforcing its commitment to the local defense market. Strategic Context and Implications The

Navy Deployments to Extend to 12- and 14-Month Cruises for Destroyers in Japan

Extended Deployments for U.S. Navy Destroyers U.S. Navy officials have begun notifying sailors' families stationed in Japan that two destroyers will undergo significant deployments lasting 12 and 14 months. This shift marks a potential change in operational norms for naval deployments, raising concerns among families and personnel

USAF Explores Air-To-Air Combat Roles for Bombers Amid Fleet Expansion

Shifting Perspectives on Bomber Capabilities The United States Air Force (USAF) has confirmed that bombers might take on a significant role in air-to-air combat. This development is part of a broader strategy to enhance military capabilities by expanding the fighter fleet and establishing a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) force. As

Four KJ-3000 Radar Jets Indicate Serial Production at Chinese Factory

Expansion of China's Airborne Early Warning Capabilities The recent emergence of four KJ-3000 radar jets at a Chinese factory signals a significant step in the serial production of this advanced airborne early warning and control aircraft. The KJ-3000 is recognized as the most capable model within China'

HS Produkt — Croatian small arms manufacturer. Expect the best. hs-produkt.hr