On January 29, 2026, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense announced a multi-billion-dollar defense agreement with Hanwha Aerospace to supply long-range precision strike capabilities to its land forces. The contract centers on the CHUNMOO multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), marking a strategic shift in Norway’s defense posture amid growing regional security challenges.
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Norway Adopts CHUNMOO System
Under the agreement, Hanwha Aerospace will deliver 16 CHUNMOO launch systems, accompanied by missiles with varying ranges, training materials, and integrated logistical support. The Norwegian government has valued the deal at 19 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 1.9 billion USD), making it one of the largest single investments in the history of the country’s ground forces.
Deliveries are expected to take place in stages. Launchers and training systems are scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029, followed by the arrival of munitions in 2030 and 2031. The Ministry of Defense has set a target for the entire system to be operational within four years.
Missile variants will cover three range classes, including an option capable of reaching targets up to 500 kilometers away. While the number of missiles ordered remains undisclosed, the inclusion of long-range munitions dramatically enhances Norway’s ability to project force over greater distances from its territory.
This marks the first time the Norwegian Army will field a land-based precision strike system of this class. In an official release, Minister Tore O. Sandvik described the deal as “among the most significant investments ever made in the Army.”
🇳🇴🇰🇷 Norway’s parliament has approved a roughly $2 billion plan to buy long-range rocket artillery, choosing South Korea’s K239 Chunmoo system over the US-made HIMARS. The move is intended to strengthen Norway’s deterrence posture against Russia, particularly in the High North… pic.twitter.com/sM4YQNp6Et
— Gandalv (@Microinteracti1) January 28, 2026
Norway’s Procurement Decision
The CHUNMOO system was selected following a competitive procurement process launched in late 2024. Four companies were invited to bid: KNDS (France-Germany), Rheinmetall (Germany), Hanwha Aerospace (South Korea), and a joint team from SAAB/Boeing. Only SAAB/Boeing failed to submit a final offer by the March 2025 deadline.
Performance, cost, and delivery time were identified as critical criteria. The Norwegian defense authorities reported that only CHUNMOO met all the technical and logistical requirements. The system outperformed both European and American proposals.
According to official sources, the CHUNMOO system’s longer maximum range, combined with its shorter lead time, was decisive in the final selection. The decision reflects Norway’s strategic priority to field enhanced strike capabilities within a relatively short timeframe, rather than waiting for alternative suppliers with longer production schedules.
Defense-industrial Cooperation
Beyond system performance, Hanwha Aerospace has committed to a substantial industrial cooperation agreement with Norwegian companies. As stated by the Breaking Defense, the deal includes investments equivalent to 120% of the contract’s value, aimed at reinforcing local defense industry capabilities.
Missile production will be localized in Poland, which is also acquiring CHUNMOO systems, suggesting a growing European support network around the platform. This cooperative framework aligns with Norway’s goal of building sustainable regional defense ecosystems while maintaining control over key supply chains.
