The Croatian government has approved the acquisition of 18 K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) from South Korea for approximately €435.2 million ($506 million), excluding VAT.
The procurement follows approval from the parliamentary defense committee and is aimed at replacing Croatia’s aging SVLR Vulkan and SVLR Grad BM-21 multiple launch rocket systems while significantly strengthening the country’s long-range precision-strike capabilities.
The Chunmoo can launch a range of rockets and tactical missiles, with certain munitions providing engagement ranges of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles). This represents a major increase over Croatia’s existing Soviet-era systems, which have a maximum range of roughly 20 kilometers (12 miles).
Under the planned procurement, South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace will supply the 18 K239 launchers along with rocket ammunition. Poland’s WB Electronics will be responsible for supplying, installing, and integrating the command-and-control system.
The acquisition is scheduled to take place between 2026 and 2029. The Croatian government expects the complete package to be delivered within 24 to 36 months, while Croatian media reports indicate that approximately 85 percent of the systems could be delivered by 2028.
Why Croatia Chose Chunmoo Over HIMARS
Croatia had initially planned to acquire US-made HIMARS systems. In August 2024, the US State Department approved a possible sale of eight HIMARS launchers and associated equipment to Zagreb for an estimated $390 million.
The proposed HIMARS package included GMLRS rockets with a range of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles), along with additional equipment, support, and services. Croatia later turned to the Chunmoo following reports of US restrictions on the availability of longer-range HIMARS munitions.
According to Croatian newspaper Jutarnji, discussions between Croatia and South Korea began roughly a year earlier during Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić’s visit to Seoul.
Serbia’s procurement of Israeli-made PULS rocket artillery systems was also reportedly a factor in Croatia’s decision. South Korea’s offer of faster deliveries, lower costs, and access to a wider selection of ammunition further strengthened the Chunmoo’s appeal as an alternative to HIMARS.
K239 Chunmoo
The K239 Chunmoo is a South Korean multiple launch rocket system developed by Hanwha Aerospace for the Republic of Korea Army. Mounted on a highly mobile 8×8 truck chassis, the system uses a modular launcher that can accommodate different ammunition types and ranges.
Its ammunition family includes 131mm and 230mm unguided rockets, 239mm guided rockets with ranges of up to 80 kilometers (50 miles), and the CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile, which can reach approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles).
The launcher carries two interchangeable rocket pods and can fire a salvo of up to eight rockets in less than one minute. Its digital fire-control and navigation systems enable precision engagement and networked operations, while its high mobility allows the system to rapidly relocate after firing.
Automated reloading and networked coordination with other artillery assets further enhance the Chunmoo’s battlefield responsiveness, operational flexibility, and survivability.
