Norway Enhances Defense Capabilities with Hanwha's Chunmoo System

Norway has finalized a significant agreement with South Korean defense firm Hanwha to procure long-range precision artillery, valued at approximately 19 billion Norwegian kroner (USD 2 billion). This decision underscores Norway's commitment to bolstering its defense posture in response to evolving security threats, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions in Europe.

Norway picks Hanwha to supply rocket artillery in $2 billion deal

The acquisition includes 16 Chunmoo launch systems and a substantial inventory of missiles capable of striking targets at ranges of up to 500 kilometers. This range was a decisive factor in Norway's selection of Hanwha over competing offers from KNDS, Rheinmetall, and the U.S. High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). Norwegian Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik emphasized that Hanwha was the only supplier that met all performance, delivery, and cost requirements.

Norway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion AgreementNorway picks Hanwha to supply rocket artillery in $2 billion deal

The need for enhanced long-range fire capabilities has become increasingly apparent among European nations, especially following the conflict in Ukraine. Countries such as Denmark and Germany have expressed similar needs for deep-strike capabilities, while France is developing its own alternative to HIMARS. This acquisition positions Norway strategically within a broader regional effort to strengthen military readiness against potential adversaries.

Norway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion Agreement

The competitive procurement process, initiated in November 2024, included bids from KNDS, Rheinmetall, Hanwha, and Saab/Boeing. However, KNDS was excluded in June 2025 for failing to meet the requirements for delivering a complete system. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence opted not to reopen the competition, citing risks of increased costs and delayed deliveries. Ultimately, Hanwha's Chunmoo was the only bid that fulfilled all criteria, allowing for a faster and more cost-effective delivery.

Norway picks Hanwha to supply rocket artillery in $2 billion dealNorway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion Agreement

Hanwha is expected to deliver the launchers between 2028 and 2029, with missiles following in 2030 and 2031, aiming for operational readiness within four years. Additionally, Hanwha has proposed industrial cooperation agreements with Norwegian companies equivalent to 120% of the contract value, which could benefit local firms such as Kongsberg, a major producer of missile systems in Europe.

Norway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion AgreementNorway picks Hanwha to supply rocket artillery in $2 billion deal

This strategic partnership not only enhances Norway's military capabilities but also contributes to collaborative defense efforts across Europe. The acquisition of the Chunmoo system signals a commitment to modernizing military assets and ensuring readiness against contemporary threats. Experts have noted that Europe requires substantial time—over three years—to establish adequate long-range strike capabilities as part of a broader strategy to deter adversarial actions, particularly from Russia.

Norway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion Agreement

Norway's selection of Hanwha's Chunmoo system represents a pivotal step in strengthening its defense capabilities. As European nations increasingly recognize the necessity of long-range artillery, this acquisition will play a crucial role in enhancing Norway's deterrence strategy and fostering regional security collaborations.

Norway Selects Hanwha to Provide Rocket Artillery in $2 Billion AgreementNorway picks Hanwha to supply rocket artillery in $2 billion deal