S. Korea’s Chunmoo Leads Norway’s Rocket Artillery Race After German EuroPULS Exit
Norway appears to be moving closer to selecting South Korea’s K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system after Germany’s EuroPULS was dropped from the competition earlier this year, leaving only Lockheed Martin’s HIMARS and Hanwha Aerospace’s offering in contention.
The process is part of a 2024 strategy to replace the Royal Norwegian Army’s aging rocket artillery with a modern system.
Hanwha is widely seen as the frontrunner, bolstered by its existing deliveries of K9 Vidar howitzers and support vehicles, according to Hartpunkt.
Insiders say Oslo’s decision to eliminate Berlin’s EuroPULS from the competition might be linked to factors such as cost and delivery schedules, though the government has not confirmed the reasons.
The shift comes even as Norway and Germany deepen broader defense cooperation, including joint procurement of Type 212CD submarines and Leopard 2A8 tanks.
At the handover of the first 2A8s in Munich, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius urged closer collaboration on future rocket artillery systems, saying such projects “would be a win for both sides, for interoperability, for security of supply, and for a robust European capability.”
On Lockheed’s offer, the US already approved a request last year for up to 16 HIMARS launchers valued at approximately $580 million, but Washington has reportedly declined to authorize sales of longer-range GMLRS-ER or PrSM missiles.
Sources said that discussions with the American company, including on the GMARS, remain active.
Domestic Debate, Timing of Decision
Norway would follow Poland, Estonia, and other NATO members in turning to non-European suppliers to diversify defense supply chains if it ultimately selects the Chunmoo system.
Despite its progress, related decisions have sparked domestic controversy, with Norwegian defense giants Kongsberg and Aker urging the government to choose EuroPULS to support the national industry.
Hartpunkt reported that rocket artillery is missing from the draft 2025 budget, suggesting the country will likely wait for next year’s updated long-term defense plan before making a final decision.
