Foreign troops take part in a training program involving the K9 self-propelled howitzer in this photo provided by the Army, Nov. 22. Yonhap

Korea has launched an education program on the K9 self-propelled howitzer and the K2 main battle tank for military personnel from seven nations, including Poland, Romania and Qatar, the Army said Friday.

Compared with the first round of the program held in July that focused on the K9 howitzer, the second round of the three-week program that kicked off on Monday also includes education on the K2 tank, according to the Army.

A total of 35 personnel from seven nations, up from 14 personnel from three nations in the first round, joined the education program meant to provide participating troops with a better operation understanding of Korean weapons systems, it added.

Under the program, participating troops will undergo training on the K9 and K2's operation and maintenance and also hold combined live-fire and maneuvering drills with Korean personnel.

The K9 and K2 are key weapons in Korea's push to strengthen its footing in the global defense market, with the country aiming to carve out a 5 percent share by 2027 and become the world's fourth-largest defense exporter.

Nine nations outside of Korea, including Turkey, Poland and Egypt, have purchased the K9, with Romania most recently joining the list in July. (Yonhap)