Oslo: Hanwha Aerospace Co., a South Korean defense company, has secured a significant contract from Norway to supply advanced land-based long-range precision artillery systems. The Norwegian government announced this major deal on Thursday, highlighting its strategic importance.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the contract is valued at 19 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately US$1.9 billion) and involves the delivery of Hanwha Aerospace's Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS) to the Norwegian Armed Forces. The agreement also includes missiles, launch vehicles, training equipment, and integrated logistics support, as confirmed by Norway's Ministry of Defence in a press release.

The acquisition of these systems will enhance the Norwegian Army's long-range strike capabilities, with missiles capable of reaching targets up to 500 kilometers away. The contract encompasses 16 launch units along with a substantial number of missiles.

A formal contract signing ceremony is planned for Friday in Oslo, with prominent officials from both nations, including Kang Hoon-sik, South Korean presidential chief of staff, expected to be present.

Norway's decision to select Hanwha Aerospace came after an international competition initiated in November 2024, which included several European and U.S. defense firms. Hanwha emerged as the sole provider meeting all criteria related to performance, delivery schedule, and cost, as stated by Oslo.

Deliveries of the launch systems and training equipment are scheduled for 2028-2029, while missile deliveries are anticipated between 2030 and 2031, according to the Norwegian government. Additionally, missile production is planned to be established in Poland, where the same system is being acquired.

Furthermore, Hanwha Aerospace has proposed an industrial cooperation program with Norwegian companies, equating to 120 percent of the contract's value. This initiative reflects Hanwha's commitment to fostering local industry collaboration.

This agreement marks a significant milestone for Hanwha Aerospace in the Nordic defense market, following its previous success in supplying K9 Vidar self-propelled howitzers to Norway in September. Industry experts note that this deal emphasizes Hanwha's expanding presence in Europe and its capability to satisfy the stringent operational and industrial standards demanded by European defense clients.