Croatia Approves $506M Deal for 18 Korean Chunmoo MLRS

The Croatian government has authorized the acquisition of 18 K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) for approximately 435.2 million euros ($506 million), excluding VAT.

The decision follows approval by the parliamentary defense committee and is intended to replace the army’s aging SVLR Vulkan and SVLR Grad BM-21 MLRS while enhancing its long-range fires capabilities.

Capable of firing different types of rockets and missiles, the Chunmoo can engage targets at ranges of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles), depending on the munition. By comparison, Croatia’s existing Soviet-made systems have a maximum range of about 20 kilometers (12 miles).

Under the planned contracts, South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace will provide 18 K239 launchers and rocket ammunition, while Poland’s WB Electronics will deliver, install, and integrate the command-and-control system.

The procurement will be carried out from 2026 through 2029. The Croatian government says the complete package is expected to be delivered within 24 to 36 months, while Croatian media have reported that about 85 percent of the system could be delivered by 2028.

“After the Rafale, this is one of the largest and most important investments in the modernization of the Croatian Armed Forces since the end of the Homeland War,” Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić said the acquisition would provide the Croatian Armed Forces with “precise and effective fire support at short, medium, and long ranges.”

“Chunmoo is a modern and powerful missile system; it is one of the few wheeled multiple rocket launchers capable of carrying two missile modules simultaneously on a single launcher, including modules with different types of ammunition,” he added.

Chunmoo Over HIMARS

Zagreb had originally planned to procure US-made HIMARS systems, with the US State Department approving a possible sale of eight launchers and related equipment in August 2024 for an estimated $390 million.

The proposed package included GMLRS rockets, which have ranges up to 70 kilometers (43 miles), as well as other equipment and support. Croatia subsequently shifted to the Chunmoo following reported US restrictions on the availability of longer-range HIMARS munitions.

According to Jutarnji, initial talks between Croatia and South Korea began about a year ago during Anušić’s visit to Seoul.

The newspaper reported that neighboring rival Serbia’s acquisition of Israeli-made PULS rocket artillery systems also influenced Croatia’s decision. South Korea’s offer of faster delivery, a lower price, and access to a broad range of ammunition also helped make the Chunmoo an attractive alternative.

Chunmoo

The K239 Chunmoo is a South Korean multiple launch rocket system developed by Hanwha Aerospace for the Republic of Korea Army. Mounted on a highly mobile 8×8 truck chassis, it features a modular launcher capable of firing munitions of different calibers and ranges.

Its ammunition options include 131mm and 230mm unguided rockets, 239mm guided rockets with ranges up to 80 kilometers (50 miles), and the CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile, which can reach 290 kilometers (180 miles).

The launcher carries two interchangeable pods and can fire a salvo of up to eight rockets in less than a minute. Its digital fire-control and navigation systems support precision and networked strikes, while its mobility allows it to rapidly relocate after firing.

The system also features automated reloading and networked coordination with other artillery assets, enhancing its responsiveness and flexibility on the battlefield.

Source: Defence Post