The Norwegian government has chosen Hanwha Aerospace’s K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system to modernize the army’s rocket artillery, opting for the South Korean platform over European and US competitors.
The procurement includes 16 launchers and a large inventory of missiles across three range bands, including variants capable of striking targets at distances of up to 500 kilometers (311 miles).
Launcher deliveries and training packages are scheduled for 2028 and 2029, followed by missile deliveries in 2030 and 2031.
The decision marks one of the most significant investments in the history of the Norwegian Army and signals a departure from Norway’s traditionally Euro-Atlantic procurement preferences.
It also builds on an established partnership with South Korea, following Norway’s earlier acquisition of K9 Vidar self-propelled artillery from Hanwha Aerospace.
Norway narrowed its competition in November 2025 to the Chunmoo and Lockheed Martin’s HIMARS after eliminating the EuroPULS system offered by Elbit Systems in cooperation with KNDS Deutschland.
One of the decisive evaluation criteria was missile range. The Chunmoo can employ multiple missile types, including long-range munitions reaching 500 kilometers, a capability not offered by rival commercial proposals.
Hanwha’s bid also benefited from shorter delivery timelines and lower costs, as well as a rapidly expanding European industrial footprint centered in Poland. Warsaw is procuring close to 300 Chunmoo launchers and has partnered with Hanwha to establish missile production in Poland, with the potential to supply other European customers.
In addition, Hanwha proposed an industrial cooperation package with Norwegian firms valued at 120 percent of the contract value and agreed to defer payments until deliveries commence.
By selecting the Chunmoo, Norway joins a growing group of NATO allies turning to South Korean rocket artillery to quickly field long-range strike capabilities, strengthening deterrence and adding a deep-strike dimension to NATO’s northern flank amid heightened regional tensions.
