In a significant development for Poland’s defense capabilities, WB Electronics, a Polish defense firm, has entered into a partnership with South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace to establish a joint venture dedicated to manufacturing missiles intended for the Chunmoo multiple rocket launch system (MRLS). According to reports, the joint venture will see Hanwha owning a controlling stake of 51 percent, while WB Electronics, a subsidiary of WB Group, will retain 49 percent.
The newly formed venture aims to commence production within three years, focusing on the CGR-80 guided missiles that are integral to the Homar-K system. This system is a Polish adaptation of the South Korean K239 Chunmoo MRLS, which represents a significant upgrade to Poland’s military technology.
In 2024, Poland’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed the signing of a second agreement that includes an order for an additional 72 Homar-K systems, marking the initial phase of technology transfer for the Chunmoo launchers to Poland. PaweÅ‚ Bejda, Secretary of State at the Ministry, underscored the importance of this collaboration, emphasizing that the next phase will involve the production of ammunition specifically designed for these launchers.
Since 2022, Poland has placed orders for a total of 290 Homar-K systems, amounting to approximately 7.2 trillion Korean won (around $5.06 billion). The order history reveals that 218 systems were ordered at the conclusion of 2022, followed by the more recent order of 72 systems in 2024.
The Homar-K system is notable for its advanced design, featuring a K239 launcher module that is mounted on a Jelcz P882.57 TS T45 8×8 truck chassis. It is equipped with a fire control system produced by WB Group, enhancing its operational effectiveness. Each launcher module comprises two containers capable of housing either six CGR-080 rockets or a single 600-millimeter CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile, which has a striking range of 290 kilometers (approximately 180 miles).
As of now, Poland has already received 90 Homar-K systems, with the remainder scheduled for delivery by 2029. The collaboration between WB Electronics and Hanwha Aerospace is expected to bolster Poland’s defense industry while also paving the way for potential missile exports to other European nations, thereby strengthening regional security and cooperation.
