South Korean defence prime Hanwha Aerospace signed a second executive contract with the Polish Armament Agency to supply additional K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), long-range CTM-290 guided missiles, and transfer of launch module and rocket technology, the company announced on 25 April.
The latest contract – worth around US$1.6 billion – follows the framework contract and first executive contract signed in 2022, in which Poland committed to acquiring up to 288 Chunmoo MLRS systems. In contrast the first executive contract, worth US$3.55 billion, provisioned for 218 systems and several thousand precision munitions along with logistics and training support through 2025.
Hanwha Aerospace noted that the contract was signed at its production facility in Changwon and witnessed by senior defence officials from both countries. Polish officials also witnessed a test-firing of the CTM-290 guided munition, which has a diameter of 600mm and a maximum stated range of 290km.
“This contract signifies our dedication to supporting the enhancement of security in Poland and the region, irrespective of political and societal changes,” said Jaeil Son, President and CEO of Hanwha Aerospace. “Hanwha Aerospace is proud of our ongoing dedication to delivering deterrence solutions to regions with urgent demands.”
The Chunmoo MLRS is integrated to the Jelcz 8×8 vehicle and designated Homar-K in Polish service. Besides the indigenous chassis, the Homar-K will also feature the locally developed Topaz combat management system as well as other Polish components and subsystems.
Besides the Chunmoo launchers and munitions, Hanwha Aerospace is also building Polish-specification K9PL 155mm self-propelled howitzers in Changwon at a rate of almost 200 systems per year. Efforts are underway to localise production of K9PL systems in Poland, as well as the joint design and development of a Polish K9 derivative.
Poland has acquired significant South Korean arms and equipment in recent years such as SNT Motiv K4 40mm automatic grenade launchers, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) F/A-50 light fighters, Kia Motors K153 Raycolt light tactical vehicles (KLTV)s, as well as the Hyundai Rotem K2 main battle tanks (MBTs).
by Jr Ng
