South Korea will mobilize K2 tanks and K9 self-propelled howitzers to take part in combined drills in Qatar next month, marking the Army’s first overseas exercise of its kind, officials said Monday.

A contingent of some 100 soldiers, four K2 Black Panther tanks and four K9A1 Thunder howitzers will participate in the two-week drills set to begin on Oct. 14 at the Al Qalayel training center, according to the Army.

The two countries plan to stage live-fire and maneuver drills, and train on sustainment procedures, such as equipment maintenance, taking into account Qatar’s dry and high-temperature environment, the Army said.

The troops and equipment will travel to Qatar aboard the ROKS Nojeokbong landing ship, which is also set to hold combined drills with the Qatari military in waters near Doha for the first time.

The Army said it plans to promote South Korean military equipment during the exercise period by demonstrating the capabilities of the K2 and the K9A1.

The exercise will take place after the two co
untries signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in the defense sector when former Defense Minister Shin Won-sik visited Qatar in February.

Source: Yonhap News Agency