Croatia procures South Korean K239 Chunmoo rocket systems

Croatia is modernizing its military through a contract with South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace to procure the K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system and CTM-X ballistic missiles. The deal, valued at 435.2 million euros excluding VAT, includes 18 self-propelled launchers with deliveries expected by 2029.

In an interview with Arirang News, Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić noted that the delivery timeline of approximately 18 months is significantly faster than the three to five years often required by other partners. He cited high quality and competitive pricing as primary reasons for selecting the South Korean system, which will replace the Grad BM-21 and Vulkan systems.

Anušić warned that European nations must increase readiness for potential future conflicts, stating, “We must be prepared to defend our borders and our people.” He suggested that other NATO members might follow Croatia’s lead in looking toward South Korean defense technology due to rising costs and long lead times from traditional Western suppliers. The Croatian company Končar is expected to partner in the long-term maintenance of the systems.