Poland and South Korea Forge Missile Production Partnership
In a significant move for its defense capabilities, Poland has partnered with South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace to form a joint venture aimed at producing missiles for the Chunmoo multiple rocket launch system (MRLS). According to reports from Breaking Defense, Hanwha will possess a majority stake of 51 percent in this new entity, while the Polish firm WB Electronics, a subsidiary of the WB Group, will hold 49 percent. This collaboration marks a vital step in enhancing Poland’s military technology by establishing local production of advanced missile systems.
The joint venture is set to focus on producing the CGR-80 guided missiles specifically designed for the Homar-K system, which represents Poland’s version of the K239 Chunmoo MRLS. Manufacturing is expected to kick off within three years, with ambitions of expanding the market for these missiles to other European nations. Paweł Bejda, Secretary of State at Poland’s Ministry of National Defense, highlighted the progress made by stating, “In 2024, we signed a second agreement for 72 Homar-K [Chunmoo] systems. This marks the initial phase of transferring technology to Poland, paving the way for future ammunition production.”
Expanding Poland’s Military Arsenal
Poland’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities is evident in its substantial orders for the Homar-K systems. Since 2022, the country has accumulated a total order of 290 systems, with a financial commitment reaching 7.2 trillion Korean won, equivalent to approximately $5.06 billion. The initial order consisted of 218 Homar-K systems placed at the close of 2022, followed by an additional 72 systems in 2024, underscoring Poland’s increasing investment in its defense infrastructure.
The Homar-K system is an advanced piece of military equipment that features a K239 launcher module mounted on a robust Jelcz P882.57 TS T45 8×8 truck chassis. This system is integrated with a fire control mechanism developed by WB Group. Each launcher module is sophisticated, capable of accommodating two containers that can hold either six CGR-080 rockets or a single 600-millimeter CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile, boasting an impressive operational range of 290 kilometers (180 miles). As of now, Poland has received 90 of these Homar-K systems, with the remainder expected to be delivered by 2029.
