Hanwha Aerospace has initiated construction of a major European production center in Romania dedicated to manufacturing K9 self-propelled howitzers and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. The new complex, branded H-ACE (Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence) Europe, will be established in Petrești and represents a substantial step in the company’s long-term expansion strategy across NATO markets. Spanning approximately 181,000 square meters, the site will incorporate modern assembly lines, advanced system integration infrastructure, validation and testing facilities, and a 1,751-meter driving track for mobility and endurance trials. The Romanian facility is designed to provide complete life-cycle support, covering assembly, integration, quality testing, maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Hanwha intends to progressively localize production, targeting up to 80 percent Romanian industrial participation. More than 30 local defense suppliers are expected to join Hanwha’s global supply network, strengthening domestic capability while embedding Romania into wider European defense supply chains. Construction follows a 2024 procurement contract under which Romania ordered 54 K9 systems and 36 K10 vehicles, significantly enhancing the country’s long-range artillery capacity. Beyond fulfilling this order, Hanwha aims to use the facility as a launchpad for future European programs, including infantry fighting vehicles, long-range precision strike platforms, and unmanned ground systems. Romania’s defense sector has recently attracted notable foreign investment. In 2022, Rheinmetall established a facility near Bucharest focused on armored vehicle integration and sustainment, supporting long-term fleet readiness. In 2023, Elbit Systems partnered with Romanian state-owned Romarm to develop a domestic artillery production site for 155mm ATMOS mobile howitzers. These initiatives collectively reflect Romania’s ambition to evolve into a regional artillery and armored systems manufacturing hub while strengthening sovereign defense production.
