PARIS, — June 19, 2026 : South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace and French defense technology firm Thales have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate on the development of land-based long-range precision strike capabilities through the integration of Hanwha’s Chunmoo guided missile family with Thales’ X-Fire launcher platform.
The agreement was officially signed on June 17, 2026, during the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition at Paris Nord Villepinte, one of the world's largest international defense and security events.
Focus on Long-Range Precision Strike Capability
Under the MoU, the two companies will work to integrate three of Hanwha Aerospace’s precision-guided munitions with the X-Fire launcher system. The cooperation is intended to provide armed forces with a modular and interoperable precision-strike solution capable of engaging targets across a wide range of distances.
The missiles covered under the agreement include:
| Missile Type | Classification | Approximate Range |
|---|---|---|
| CGR-080 | 239 mm Guided Rocket | Up to 80 km |
| CTM-MR | Medium-Range Missile | Approximately 160 km |
| CTM-290 | Tactical Ballistic Missile | Up to 290 km |
The integration would allow operators to deploy short-, medium-, and long-range precision fires from a common launcher platform, increasing operational flexibility and simplifying logistics.
Combining Missile and Launcher Technologies
Hanwha’s K239 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MLRS) has gained significant attention in international markets due to its ability to employ a broad range of guided rockets and missiles. The system has secured procurement contracts and partnerships with several European countries, including Poland, Estonia, and Norway.
The CGR-080 guided rocket provides precision engagement capability at ranges of up to 80 kilometers. The CTM-MR extends the strike envelope to around 160 kilometers, while the CTM-290 tactical ballistic missile can engage targets at distances of up to 290 kilometers, providing deep-strike capability against high-value targets.
The partnership aims to combine these missile systems with the X-Fire launcher, a highly mobile ground-based platform jointly developed by Thales and Soframe. Designed as a versatile launcher capable of firing various long-range munitions, X-Fire completed its first demonstration firings on May 20, 2026.
Mounted on an 8x8 wheeled platform, the launcher is designed for rapid deployment, high mobility, and operational flexibility in modern battlefield environments. The system is intended to support both sovereign and allied munitions, providing flexibility for future operational requirements.
Growing Demand for Deep-Strike Systems
The cooperation comes as European countries continue to strengthen their long-range precision fire capabilities. Recent conflicts have highlighted the importance of systems capable of engaging command centers, logistics hubs, ammunition depots, and other critical targets far beyond the front line.
By integrating Chunmoo missiles with a European launcher platform, Hanwha Aerospace and Thales aim to provide armed forces with a scalable solution capable of meeting evolving operational requirements while supporting interoperability among allied nations.
Strategic Expansion in Europe
For Hanwha Aerospace, the agreement represents another step in expanding its presence in the European defense market. The company has steadily increased cooperation with European defense industries through technology partnerships, industrial cooperation agreements, and artillery system exports.
The integration of Chunmoo missiles with the X-Fire launcher is expected to strengthen links between South Korean and European defense industries while creating additional opportunities for future cooperation in precision-strike systems.
European defense procurement programs increasingly emphasize local industrial participation and interoperability. The cooperation framework established under the MoU is intended to support these objectives while enhancing the availability of long-range precision-strike capabilities for potential customers.
Next Steps
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a framework for technical cooperation and integration activities between the two companies. No production contracts, procurement agreements, or financial details have been disclosed.
The planned integration will focus on ensuring compatibility between the Chunmoo missile family and the X-Fire launcher platform, creating a combined capability able to deliver precision strikes at ranges from 80 kilometers to 290 kilometers.
As European nations continue investing in long-range fires and modern artillery capabilities, the Hanwha-Thales cooperation positions both companies to offer an interoperable precision-strike solution tailored to emerging operational requirements across the continent.
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