Norway Approves $1.9 Billion K239 Chunmoo MLRS Deal With South Korea

Norway Approves K239 Chunmoo MLRS for Long Range Strike Capability

Norway has approved a $1.9 billion acquisition of the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system as part of its effort to modernize long range fires and strengthen NATO deterrence. The decision marks one of Oslo’s largest recent artillery investments and expands South Korea’s growing footprint in the European defense market.

The deal, reported by Army Recognition, reflects Norway’s focus on rapid strike, survivability, and interoperability as regional security pressures increase in Northern Europe. The K239 Chunmoo will replace aging rocket artillery assets and provide extended range precision fires for the Norwegian Army.

Strengthening Norway’s Long Range Fires

The K239 Chunmoo is a tracked multiple launch rocket system developed by Hanwha Aerospace for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. It is designed to deliver high volume and precision fires at extended ranges while operating in harsh climates, a key requirement for Norwegian terrain and Arctic conditions.

Under the approved program, Norway will procure launch vehicles, ammunition, support equipment, and related logistics and training packages. While detailed delivery schedules have not been publicly disclosed, the acquisition aligns with Norway’s broader force modernization roadmap through the late 2020s.

According to the reporting, the system will enhance Norway’s ability to conduct deep fires against high value targets, improve battlefield responsiveness, and support joint operations within NATO frameworks.

Why Norway Selected the K239 Chunmoo

Norway’s choice of the K239 Chunmoo reflects several operational and strategic factors. The system offers modular launch pods capable of firing different rocket calibers, giving commanders flexibility across mission sets. It can deploy guided rockets with ranges exceeding 80 kilometers, and in some configurations, significantly longer range strike options.

Mobility and survivability were also decisive. The K239 Chunmoo is designed for shoot and scoot operations, reducing exposure to counter battery fire. Its tracked chassis improves off road performance in snow, forest, and mountainous terrain common across Norway.

Interoperability with allied command and control networks was another priority, ensuring the system can integrate with NATO targeting and fire coordination standards.

Expanding South Korea’s Defense Exports to Europe

The Norway K239 Chunmoo MLRS decision adds to South Korea’s expanding defense export portfolio across Europe. In recent years, countries such as Poland, Romania, and Estonia have turned to South Korean systems to rapidly rebuild artillery and armored forces.

Hanwha Aerospace has positioned the Chunmoo as a competitive alternative to legacy Western rocket artillery, offering shorter delivery timelines and adaptable configurations. The Norwegian deal reinforces Seoul’s role as a key supplier to NATO aligned countries seeking fast modernization amid rising regional threats.

Defense analysts note that European demand for long range fires has increased sharply since 2022, driven by lessons from the war in Ukraine and renewed focus on deterrence by denial.

Strategic Context for Norway and NATO

Norway’s investment in the K239 Chunmoo comes as NATO emphasizes long range precision fires as a core capability for collective defense. For Oslo, the system supports national defense of its northern regions while contributing to alliance wide deterrence along NATO’s northern flank.

The acquisition complements Norway’s broader modernization efforts, including upgrades to air defense, maritime surveillance, and land based maneuver forces. It also reflects closer defense industrial ties between Norway and South Korea, expanding beyond traditional US and European suppliers.

Officials have emphasized that the program strengthens both national readiness and NATO operational depth without altering Norway’s defensive posture.

What Comes Next

With parliamentary approval secured, contract finalization and implementation planning are expected to proceed in coordination with Norwegian defense authorities and industry partners. Initial integration and training activities are likely to begin well before full operational capability is reached later in the decade.

As European armies continue to rearm, the Norway K239 Chunmoo MLRS program underscores a broader shift toward diversified suppliers and rapid fielding of proven systems.