Croatia has approved the purchase of 18 South Korean K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems for approximately €435.2 million, excluding VAT. The acquisition is designed to replace the Croatian Army’s aging SVLR Vulkan and SVLR Grad BM-21 systems while significantly increasing its long-range strike capability. Depending on the munition employed, Chunmoo can attack targets at distances of up to 300 kilometres, compared with roughly 20 kilometres for Croatia’s existing Soviet-era launchers. Hanwha Aerospace will supply the 18 launchers and associated ammunition, while Poland’s WB Electronics will provide and integrate the command-and-control system. The procurement is planned for 2026–2029, with the complete package expected to arrive within 24–36 months. Croatian media have reported that around 85 percent of the system could be delivered by 2028. Croatia had initially considered the US-made HIMARS and received US approval in August 2024 for a possible sale of eight launchers and related equipment worth an estimated $390 million. However, the proposed HIMARS package included GMLRS rockets with ranges of up to 70 kilometres, and reported US restrictions on longer-range ammunition contributed to Zagreb’s decision to shift toward Chunmoo. Faster delivery, lower cost, and access to a wider selection of ammunition reportedly strengthened the South Korean system’s appeal. The Chunmoo uses a mobile 8×8 truck chassis and a modular launcher capable of firing multiple rocket and missile types. Its ammunition family includes 131mm and 230mm unguided rockets, 239mm guided rockets reaching up to 80 kilometres, and the CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile with a range of about 290 kilometres. The launcher carries two interchangeable pods and can fire up to eight rockets in less than one minute.
