South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace has partnered with Estonian firm Frankenburg Technologies to jointly develop counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) for next-generation land weapon platforms, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The deal was signed at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh.
Under the partnership, Hanwha will integrate the C-UAS into its land platforms, while Frankenburg will develop the guided missiles, launchers, and fire-control software.
The system is being reviewed for initial deployment on Hanwha’s next-generation command-and-armored vehicle, currently under development.
The collaboration “serves as a pivotal opportunity to enhance the survivability and competitiveness of next-generation land weapon systems against the growing threat of drones on the future battlefield,” said Kim Dong-hyeon, head of Hanwha Aerospace’s land systems division.
Expanding Military Ties
The company has previously established collaborations with several Estonian firms, including Milrem Robotics, Nortal, and SensusQ, according to Yonhap News Agency.
These partnerships cover projects ranging from unmanned ground systems to ammunition production and support broader industrial and technological cooperation.
Moreover, last year Tallinn further deepened military ties with South Korea by acquiring the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system, aimed at strengthening its long-range strike capabilities.
Once operational, Estonia will become the second European operator of the Chunmoo system after Poland.
Separately, in 2023, the Baltic government signed a 36-million-euro ($38.9 million) contract to procure 12 additional K9 self-propelled howitzers, with deliveries scheduled to be completed this year.
