The image description shows an Army K9A1 self-propelled howitzer, with a note that it’s provided by the Army and is not for resale or database use.
In the article by Lee Jeong-hyeon from Yonhap News, it is reported that on the 24th, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced the first case of approval under the new system allowing defense companies to produce and own defense items themselves. Hanwha Aerospace’s application to own a K9A1 self-propelled howitzer has been approved.
The defense material self-production and ownership system allows defense companies to directly own defense items for export promotion or research and development purposes. This system was enabled by a revision to the Defense Business Law in July of last year, providing the legal basis for it.
Previously, defense companies had to borrow equipment from the military for export promotion, demonstrations for overseas customers, or research and development, which involved administrative procedures, potential gaps in military capabilities, management burdens, and rental costs.
With this approval, companies can now own the weapons system directly, enabling them to conduct performance tests or modification and development for export more swiftly, as explained by DAPA.
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