Croatia Selects South Korean K239 Chunmoo for Major MLRS Modernization

The Croatian government has formally ratified a significant defense acquisition, approving the procurement of 18 K239 Chunmoo Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) from South Korean defense giant Hanwha Aerospace. This strategic decision aligns Croatia with an increasing number of European nations, including Poland, Estonia, and Norway, which have also opted for the K239 Chunmoo, often evaluated as a robust alternative to systems like Lockheed Martin’s M142 HIMARS.

Ivan Anušić, Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, underscored the decisive factors contributing to this choice in a government statement. He cited the system’s attractive delivery timelines, estimated between 24 to 36 months, along with its enhanced operational availability, favorable cost structure, and Hanwha’s demonstrated openness to industrial collaboration. These advantages have made the Chunmoo an increasingly favored option among European militaries seeking to modernize their ground-based precision strike capabilities.

The extensive acquisition package is valued at approximately €544.1 million (equivalent to $631.9 million), with deliveries anticipated to commence in 2026 and continue through 2029. Hanwha Aerospace will be responsible for supplying the core launchers, a diverse suite of compatible munitions, and essential ancillary equipment. Crucially, the integrated command-and-control (C2) architecture, vital for seamless operational integration, will be provided by WB Group, Hanwha’s Polish industrial partner.

The incoming K239 Chunmoo systems are poised to substantially bolster the Croatian Army’s long-range fire support capabilities, replacing its legacy systems, specifically the ex-Yugoslav M-92 Vulkan and Soviet-designed BM-21 Grad MLRS. Minister Anušić emphasized the strategic significance of this agreement, labeling it one of Croatia’s most substantial military procurements since the conclusion of its War of Independence in 1995. He further noted its importance, rivaling the strategic impact of the 2021 acquisition of 12 Dassault Rafale F3R combat aircraft from France.

This decision comes amidst earlier deliberations concerning the U.S.-made HIMARS system. While Croatia had reportedly approved a $351 million contract in December 2024 for eight HIMARS units, the evolving geopolitical context, particularly U.S. warnings concerning potential delays in HIMARS ammunition deliveries to regional allies in the wake of Middle Eastern tensions, appears to have influenced Croatia’s strategic shift towards the Chunmoo as a more expedient and strategically aligned solution for its primary MLRS modernization needs.

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