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Hanwha Aerospace to produce more K-239 Chunmoo MLRS for South Korean Army.
As reported by DealSite on November 15, 2024, the South Korean company Hanwha Aerospace signed a 342.3 billion won (approximately $244.852.412,47) contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) for the third mass production phase of the K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system. The contract accounts for 3.7% of Hanwha’s annual sales from the previous year and will run until 2026. This phase involves the production of Chunmoo launchers and their ammunition transport vehicles, which will replace aging systems within the South Korean Army such as the U.S.-made M270 MLRS introduced in 1998.
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The K-239 Chunmoo was designed as a replacement for the K136 Kooryong and incorporates technological advancements such as electric cylinders for rapid response and reloading. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The K239 Chunmoo, developed to replace the K136 Guryong, is a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher capable of firing various types of ammunition. These include 230mm unguided rockets with a range of 45 kilometers and 239mm guided rockets with an 80-kilometer range. The system can also utilize larger rockets, such as the 400mm model with a range of 200 kilometers and the 600mm missile, designated CTM290, capable of reaching 290 kilometers. The guided munitions include cluster bombs with 300 bomblets and high-explosive warheads designed for bunker penetration. These features allow for flexibility in operational use.
The Chunmoo launcher is mounted on an 8x8 wheeled chassis, developed by Doosan Infracore. It has a 450-horsepower engine and features run-flat tires and digital fire control systems. The platform is designed for mobility, allowing it to engage targets and quickly redeploy to avoid counter-battery fire. Reloading is facilitated by interchangeable rocket pods, enabling a firing configuration of up to 12 rockets per launcher. The ammunition transport vehicle, sharing the same chassis, can carry up to four rocket pods, simplifying logistical operations.
The exact number of K239 Chunmoo MLRS units deployed by South Korea remains undisclosed by the Ministry of Defense. However, estimates suggest that between 218 and 367 units are expected to be fielded. As of 2024, the South Korea fleet of multiple rocket launcher systems (MLRS) includes approximately 40 K136 Guryong units equipped with 130mm rockets, 58 M270 MLRS systems using 227mm rockets (48 standard M270 units and 10 upgraded M270A1 units), and an estimated 200 K239 Chunmoo systems configured for 239mm rockets.
This system has been operational with the South Korean military since 2015 and is part of its efforts to modernize artillery capabilities. Each battalion operating the Chunmoo system consists of 18 launchers. The platform is integrated into South Korea’s Kill Chain preemptive strike system, which is designed to address potential threats. The Chunmoo’s fire control system incorporates GPS-aided INS guidance, achieving a circular error probability of 15 meters for guided rockets.
The Chunmoo has also been exported. In the United Arab Emirates, 12 systems and ammunition vehicles were delivered under a confidential agreement. Saudi Arabia has also acquired the system, deploying it during the Yemeni Civil War, reportedly against Houthi positions. Poland, under a 2022 agreement, is set to receive 290 systems localized as the Homar-K, which integrates Polish command systems and a domestic chassis. These systems are equipped with Korean-guided rockets and tactical ballistic missiles.
The development of the K-239 Chunmoo began in 2009, with the system entering service in 2015. It was designed as a replacement for the K136 Kooryong and incorporates technological advancements such as electric cylinders for rapid response and reloading. The Chunmoo has undergone continuous upgrades, including extended-range guided rockets and tactical ballistic missiles aimed at further increasing its operational range and versatility.
This third production phase reflects ongoing efforts to modernize artillery units within South Korea and meet evolving operational requirements. It also highlights the Chunmoo’s role in regional security and its increasing presence in international defense markets.