Seoul: South Korea has officially signed a significant deal to export 18 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) to Croatia. This arms contract is valued at approximately 640 billion won (US$477 million), as announced by the state arms procurement agency.

According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korean defense firm Hanwha Aerospace Co. concluded the agreement, worth 410 million euros, with Croatia's defense ministry on Thursday. This marks the first major defense agreement between South Korea and Croatia, highlighting a new phase in defense collaboration between the two nations.

Croatia is now the fourth European nation to procure the Chunmoo system, following Poland, Estonia, and Norway. The Chunmoo MLRS, primarily designed to address North Korea's long-range artillery threats, is a versatile South Korean weapon system. It is capable of executing rapid and precise strikes using various rockets and missiles with different ranges.

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) expressed optimism that the export of the Chunmoo system will pave the way for expanded long-term, strategic collaboration with local defense firms in Croatia. This includes opportunities for industrial cooperation and post-logistics support, further strengthening the defense ties between the two countries.

On the day of the agreement, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and DAPA Minister Lee Yong-cheol were present at the signing ceremony. Hosted by the Croatian prime minister, the event also served as a platform to discuss avenues for expanding bilateral defense cooperation.