Norway’s $2 Billion Decision: Chooses Hanwha for Rocket Artillery Supply

PARIS — In a substantial defense procurement, Norway has selected Hanwha, a South Korean firm, to equip its military with advanced long-range precision artillery systems. The contract, valued at 19 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately US$2 billion), was awarded for Hanwha’s Chunmoo system, which was chosen over other contenders such as KNDS, Rheinmetall, and the U.S. High Mobility Artillery Rocket System due to its superior range capabilities.

The Norwegian government has confirmed the purchase of 16 launcher systems and a substantial quantity of missiles capable of hitting targets up to 500 kilometers away. This capability was unmatched by any other bidder, according to official statements released on Thursday.

The need for expanded long-range strike capabilities has become apparent across Europe, especially in light of the extensive drone and missile attacks witnessed during conflicts such as those in Ukraine. These capabilities are crucial for neutralizing enemy launch sites to safeguard civilians and military personnel.

Countries like Denmark and Germany are also advancing their military capabilities, with Denmark requiring enhanced strike capabilities for deterrence, and Germany exploring options like the U.S. Typhon missile-launcher. France is similarly developing an alternative to the U.S. HIMARS, expected to be tested by mid-year.

Norway’s Minister of Defence, Tore O. Sandvik, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition in strengthening Norway’s defense posture against potential threats. He noted that Hanwha was the only supplier that could meet the Norwegian requirements on performance, timely delivery, and budget.

The introduction of land-based long-range precision fire marks a significant enhancement in the capabilities of the Norwegian armed forces, representing one of the largest investments in its history. The decision was the result of a comprehensive evaluation process conducted by the Norwegian Defence Material Agency, according to Sandvik.

Poland, which has also contracted Hanwha for the Chunmoo system, will facilitate local production of the missiles. This move is expected to bolster the supply security for all European users of the system, including Norway, which will receive missiles manufactured in Poland.

Hanwha is scheduled to deliver the launcher systems between 2028 and 2029, which will allow the Norwegian armed forces to commence training. The missile deliveries are planned for 2030 and 2031, ensuring the system is operational within four years, as per the Norwegian government’s timeline.

Additionally, Hanwha has proposed industrial cooperation agreements with Norwegian firms, potentially worth 120% of the contract value. This is a significant development for local industries, including Norway’s Kongsberg, one of Europe’s leading missile system manufacturers.

According to a survey by Defense News in February 2025, security experts believe that Europe would require over three years to adequately develop long-range strike capabilities independently of the United States, to effectively deter threats such as those posed by Russia.

The selection process, initiated in November 2024, saw bids from major defense companies including KNDS, Rheinmetall, Hanwha, and a joint effort from Saab/Boeing. All contenders, except Saab/Boeing, met the March 2025 submission deadline. The U.S. HIMARS system by Lockheed Martin was also a considered option.

KNDS was ruled out in June 2025 by the Defense Materiel Agency, which found the Franco-German consortium did not fulfill the necessary system delivery requirements. The Ministry of Defence decided against reopening the competition to avoid potential cost escalations and delays, highlighting the strategic importance of timely deployment.

Ultimately, Hanwha’s Chunmoo was the only proposal that satisfied all of Norway’s criteria, offering a cost-effective and swift solution compared to the alternatives, the Norwegian government confirmed.