Norway Selects South Korea’s K239 Chunmoo MLRS Over HIMARS

The Norwegian parliament has approved a plan to procure long-range artillery to strengthen the country’s defenses and deter Russia in the Arctic, where the two nations share a border.

The government has decided to purchase the South Korean–made K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system from Hanwha Aerospace, opting for it over the U.S. HIMARS system, Reuters reported, citing Aftenposten and official government sources.

According to the government, the Chunmoo meets all of Norway’s requirements, including a strike range of up to 500 kilometers, faster delivery times, and the ability to use multiple types of munitions.

Norway’s Ministry of Defence plans to acquire 16 launchers along with an unspecified number of missiles. The total value of the deal is estimated at around $2 billion.

Some lawmakers suggested developing a European alternative, but the government dismissed the proposal as too expensive and too time-consuming.

Hanwha Aerospace already has an agreement with the Polish company WB Electronics to establish a joint venture for missile production in Poland.

This will ensure that part of the production is located in Europe and will simplify logistics for NATO allies.