K9 Howitzer, K2 Tank Courses Draw Praise in South Korea’s International Training Program

The K-Army International Course (K-AIC), designed to provide practical assistance to countries that purchase South Korean K-weapon systems, is gaining widespread acclaim and further developing its scope.

On Friday, South Korea’s Army announced, “The second half of the 2024 Army International Course is being conducted over three weeks at the Sangmudae Training Center in South Jeolla Province and various branch schools in Jaundae, Daejeon.”

Launched in July, this initiative offers tactical operation training to military personnel from countries that have purchased or are considering South Korean weapon systems, including the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer and K2 Black Panther main battle tank.

The program showcases the excellence of South Korean weapon systems and military training methods. It also provides junior officers international exposure, helping them build global networks and improve their English proficiency.

In response to growing demand, the program was expanded and restructured for the second half of 2024. New courses, including the K2 Tank Basic and Maintenance Course and the K9 Howitzer Maintenance Course, were added. The K9 Howitzer training now includes both basic and advanced courses tailored to participants’ skill levels.

The number of participating countries has more than doubled, increasing from three (Poland, Australia, and Egypt) with 14 personnel to seven (adding Romania, Qatar, Turkey, and Vietnam) with 35 personnel.

The training program began with a comprehensive welcome ceremony on November 18 and branch school induction ceremonies on November 19. Over two weeks, participants will train at the Artillery School, Mechanized School, and Logistics School, using advanced equipment such as virtual reality (VR) systems and simulators. The curriculum covers the operation, firing, and maintenance of the K9 Howitzer and K2 Tank, guided by expert instructors and trainers. After the course, participants will engage in joint training with South Korean soldiers and participate in security tours.

The new advanced K9 course covers complex tactical scenarios and rapid ammunition resupply with the K10 armored ammunition resupply vehicle, and it shares hard-earned operational insights.

Courses such as the K2 Tank Basic Course, K9 Howitzer Maintenance Course, and K2 Tank Maintenance Course were added in response to strong international demand in line with South Korea’s growing defense exports. These courses are led by veteran instructors and skilled maintenance experts. They offer detailed training on tactical operations and field maintenance procedures, earning high praise from participants.

Army Chief of Staff Park An Soo, who visited all five international courses, stated, “This international training program introduces foreign military personnel to South Korea’s high-level training systems, promoting the excellence of our defense industry and fostering defense cooperation through military exchange with participating countries.” He encouraged staff and trainees during his visit.