Croatia to buy South Korean rocket launchers for $632m

Croatia said Friday it will buy South Korean K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers worth 544 million euros, or $632 million, as part of a military modernisation drive.

A government statement said the defence ministry will procure the launchers, associated equipment and systems by 2029. The state-run HINA news agency said 18 launchers will be purchased.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said the acquisition was one of Croatia's largest and most important military modernisation investments since its 1990s independence war, after the 2021 purchase of 12 French Rafale fighter jets.

Plenkovic said Croatia was acquiring the ability to engage targets rapidly and precisely at very long ranges. He said the aim was deterrence, protecting Croatian citizens and contributing to European collective security and defence.

Zagreb has also bought eight US-made HIMARS rocket launchers, with delivery expected in 2028. Croatia is a member of NATO and the European Union.