The Norwegian Ministry of Defense is leaning toward purchasing the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system, which effectively removes the German EuroPULS system from the competition.
The report comes from Hartpunkt.
According to the media, Hanwha’s competitor had been KNDS Deutschland with the European EuroPULS system, but that offer was rejected as early as the summer.
Current options include systems from Lockheed Martin (including HIMARS) and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace (K239 Chunmoo).
Sources note that Hanwha has the strongest prospects due to its existing cooperation with Norway, including deliveries of K9 Vidar self-propelled howitzers and other equipment.
The media notes that Norway’s potential turn toward South Korea may reflect a broader trend: NATO countries increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional European suppliers to secure supply chains and reduce technological dependence.
So far, there has been no official confirmation of Norway’s choice of a new rocket system. Likewise, next year’s draft budget has not yet included a section on rocket artillery, which may indicate that a final decision will be postponed until the adoption of the country’s updated long-term defense plan. In addition, the exclusion of KNDS from the competition has not been officially confirmed.
It is worth noting that Poland is already purchasing Korean MLRS, and Estonia is also discussing a potential acquisition. Estonia would likely operate both HIMARS and Chunmoo simultaneously.
