Croatia signs deal for South Korean K239 Chunmoo rocket systems

Croatia has signed a contract with South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace to purchase 18 K239 Chunmoo self-propelled rocket systems and associated equipment. The procurement, valued at approximately 435.2 million euros excluding VAT, is intended to modernize the Croatian military by replacing older Vulkan M92 and GRAD BM-21 122 mm systems with long-range capabilities reaching up to 300 kilometers.

Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić described the system as a “strike force” for the military, noting that alongside Rafale fighter jets, it will represent the nation's most powerful combat capability. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasized that the acquisition provides capabilities the country has never previously possessed. The South Korean defense ministry also signed a memorandum of understanding with Croatia to foster future defense cooperation and industrial links.

Deliveries from Hanwha Aerospace are expected to be completed by 2029. This investment follows recent decisions to increase Croatia's defense spending, with goals to reach 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027 and 3 percent by 2030.