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K239 Chunmoo Rocket Launcher System

K239 Chunmoo Rocket Launcher System

Manufacturer: Hanwha Aerospace
Category: Artillery & Indirect Fire
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Caliber & Firepower 239 mm and 400 mm rockets
Maximum Effective Range Diesel truck engine, approx. 450 hp
Mobility / Platform Type 90 km per hour
Fire Control & Targeting System Armored cab, STANAG Level 2 optional

Full Specifications

1. General Information

System Name	K239 Chunmoo
Manufacturer	Hanwha Aerospace
Country of Origin	South Korea
Type / Role	Multiple Launch Rocket System
Caliber	239 mm / 400 mm
Year Introduced	2015
In Service	Yes
Unit Cost	USD 3.5–5 Million
Crew Required	3 Personnel
Platform Type	Truck-Mounted
Power Source	Diesel

2. Performance & Firepower

Maximum Effective Range	80 km (239 mm) / 290 km+ (400 mm)
Minimum Range	10 km
Rate of Fire (Sustained / Burst)	Full pod salvo
Accuracy (CEP)	≤ 10 m (guided)
Elevation Range	Variable
Traverse Range	360°
Recoil System	Rocket launch, no recoil
Reload Time	10–15 minutes

3. Ammunition & Warhead Options

Compatible Ammunition	HE, guided, extended range
Caliber Standard	239 mm / 400 mm
Warhead Type	HE fragmentation
Warhead Weight	90–200 kg
Fuse Type	Programmable
Muzzle Velocity	Classified
Guidance	GPS / INS
Effective Burst Radius	50–150 m

4. Fire Control & Targeting Systems

Fire Control System	Digital ballistic computer
Aiming System	GPS and inertial navigation
Communication Link	Secure tactical radio
Night Operation	Yes
Automation Level	Semi automated
Targeting Assistance	Networked fire missions

5. Launcher / Platform & Mobility

Platform Type	8x8 Truck
Vehicle Model	Custom military chassis
Mobility Range	500 km
Top Speed	90 km per hour
Ground Clearance	High mobility
Setup / Emplacement Time	Under 5 minutes
Transportability	Air and sea transport

6. Protection & Survivability

Armor Level	STANAG Level 2
CBRN Protection	Optional
Counter-Battery Radar Integration	Yes
Smoke Launcher System	Optional
Shoot-and-Scoot Capability	Yes
Signature Reduction	Limited

7. Command, Control & Networking

C2 System	Integrated artillery C2
Connectivity	Secure data link
Network Capability	Yes
Operation Mode	Networked fire missions
Compatible Systems	UAVs, forward observers

8. Operational History

Primary Operators	South Korea, Poland
Combat Proven	Limited
Operational Deployment	Deterrence role
Conflict History	None publicly confirmed
Notable Feature	Modular rocket pods

9. Dimensions & Weight

System Weight	Approx. 25 tons
Barrel Length	Not applicable
Vehicle Weight	20–25 tons
Dimensions (L×W×H)	Truck dependent
Transport Configuration	Road, rail, sea

10. Maintenance & Support

Maintenance Cycle	Annual
Field Servicing Time	Under 1 hour
Spare Parts Availability	High
Training Requirement	3–4 weeks
Support Package	OEM logistics

11. Economic / Procurement Data

Estimated unit cost	USD 3.5–5 Million
Cost per Round	USD 200,000+ guided
Country Procurement Program	ROK Armed Forces, Poland
Export Status	Approved
Manufacturer Website	Hanwha Aerospace

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Firepower 8 / 10

PROS

Modular launcher supports multiple rocket types
Long range precision strike capability
High mobility and fast deployment time
Digital fire control with network integration
Strong export and upgrade potential

CONS

Higher cost than legacy MLRS systems
Limited combat history compared to HIMARS
Logistics depend on advanced guided munitions
Crew protection varies by vehicle choice
Large rockets raise strategic escalation concerns

K239 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System

The K239 Chunmoo is South Koreas answer to modern long range rocket artillery demands. Designed for fast strikes and rapid relocation, Chunmoo fills a similar role to U.S. systems like HIMARS while offering wider munition flexibility. It was built to counter massed artillery threats on the Korean Peninsula, but its export success shows broader global appeal.

Chunmoo focuses on precision, survivability, and modular firepower. It can fire different rocket calibers from the same launcher, giving commanders flexibility without changing platforms. This approach supports modern networked warfare and joint operations.

Manufacturer

The system is developed and produced by Hanwha Aerospace, one of South Koreas leading defense firms. Hanwha has positioned Chunmoo as an export ready system, with variants tailored for NATO and non NATO users. Poland, for example, selected Chunmoo as part of its rapid artillery modernization after 2022.

Speed and Range

Chunmoo fires 239 mm guided rockets with ranges up to 80 km, and larger 400 mm rockets that can exceed 290 km depending on configuration. The launcher is truck mounted, typically on an 8×8 chassis, with road speeds near 90 km per hour. This enables classic shoot and scoot tactics to avoid counter battery fire.

Cost and Procurement

Exact pricing varies by munition and vehicle choice. Open source estimates place unit costs between USD 3.5 and 5 million. Export deals often include local production and technology transfer, which affects total program cost.

Operational Use

K239 Chunmoo Rocket Launcher System is in active service with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces and has been selected by Poland. Its rise reflects growing demand for mobile precision fires rather than massed unguided rockets.

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