Hanwha Defense, the 'Shingijeon Descendant,' Delivers Good News Again... First European Export of Multi-Launch Rocket 'Cheonmu'

Basic Export Contract with Poland

Agreement on Export of 288 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems and Guided Missiles

Cheonmu multiple launch rocket. (Photo by Hanwha Defense)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] Hanwha Defense announced on the 19th that it has signed a basic contract to supply the multiple launch rocket system 'Cheonmu' to Poland.

On the same day (local time), Hanwha Defense signed a framework contract for 288 launchers of the 'Cheonmu' multiple launch rocket system and guided missile exports in Warsaw, Poland. The framework contract is a comprehensive agreement that defines the export equipment and scale. It outlines the total supply volume and period for the Cheonmu system. A subsequent executive contract detailing specific contract execution matters will be signed later.

This marks the first export of the Cheonmu multiple launch rocket system to Europe. The Polish Ministry of National Defense plans to rapidly introduce Cheonmu and deploy it along the border. They are planning localized development using Polish chassis. The Polish-type Cheonmu system will be equipped with 239mm guided missiles and long-range guided missiles with a range of about 300km. The launchers will be integrated with the Polish fire control system and use the Polish Jelcz truck as the platform. Separate agreements are also being pursued for command vehicles, recovery vehicles, and maintenance support vehicles.

Hanwha plans to deliver the Cheonmu system to Poland as quickly as possible and is exploring localization options through a consortium with the local state-owned defense company PGZ. Additionally, through collaboration with Poland, Hanwha aims to advance defense cooperation by developing next-generation weapon systems and jointly entering third countries.

Lee Buhwan, Head of Overseas Business at Hanwha Defense, said, "Just as Cheonmu is part of Korea's self-reliant defense, through this contract, Cheonmu will protect Poland's borders," adding, "Hanwha Defense plans not only to supply weapon systems to Poland but also to establish a partnership for future-type Cheonmu, ammunition, and missile co-production."

Mariusz Błaszczak, Polish Minister of National Defence (left), and Son Jae-il, CEO of Hanwha Defense, shaking hands at the signing ceremony of the Polish Cheonmu Framework Agreement. (Photo by Polish Ministry of National Defence)

Cheonmu is a multiple launch rocket system capable of simultaneously firing several rockets stored in a launcher. Historically, Joseon was the first in the world to create multiple launch rockets. Based on the rocket weapon Juhwa invented by Choe Museon of Goryeo, the 'Singijeon,' which was used in actual combat during the reign of King Sejong of Joseon, is recognized as the origin of multiple launch rockets.

Cheonmu is a next-generation corps-level multiple launch rocket system that began development in 2009 and was completed in 2013. Hanwha opened a new horizon in domestic weapon system development by successfully leading the development of the 230mm-class multiple launch rocket Cheonmu. Cheonmu has superior range and precision compared to other ground firepower weapon systems previously operated by the military.

In particular, it can operate various types of ammunition such as 230mm guided missiles and 130mm rocket projectiles depending on the nature and form of the target. Cheonmu consists of launchers and ammunition transport vehicles. Using the same vehicle improves maintainability and efficiency, and its wheeled design provides high mobility. To ensure survivability, it is also equipped with protection against enemy chemical, biological, radiological, and rifle attacks.

Son Jaeil, CEO of Hanwha Defense, said, "We will supply Cheonmu as quickly as possible to contribute to strengthening Poland's military capabilities," and added, "We will explore areas for cooperation beyond the defense sector to further solidify the partnership between Hanwha and Poland."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.