In a significant mobile marketing move, Norway has chosen South Korean defense firm Hanwha to supply its army with long-range precision artillery in a deal worth 19 billion Norwegian kroner (US$2 billion). This decision marks a major shift in the country's defense strategy, as it seeks to rapidly strengthen its capabilities and deter potential adversaries.
The agreement involves the purchase of 16 launch systems and a "large number" of missiles, including munitions with a range of up to 500 kilometers. What sets Hanwha apart from other bidders is its ability to deliver a comparable range, making it the only supplier that meets Norway's requirements for performance, delivery time, and cost framework.
The need for long-range strike capabilities is becoming increasingly pressing in Europe, as countries recognize the importance of taking out enemy launch capabilities to protect civilians and troops against massed drone and missile strikes. Denmark has already expressed its need for deep-strike capabilities, while Germany has inquired about the U.S. Typhon missile-launcher system.
In a statement, Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik emphasized that Norway's priority is to rapidly strengthen its defense capabilities, and this acquisition will enable it to do so credibly. Hanwha was chosen based on a competition held by the Norwegian Defence Material Agency, which considered bids from KNDS, Rheinmetall, and Saab/Boeing.
This deal marks one of the largest investments ever made by the Norwegian army, and its impact is not limited to Norway alone. Poland has already signed a contract with Hanwha for local missile production, which will strengthen security of supply for European users. In fact, Hanwha plans to supply all European customers of the system with missiles produced in Poland.
The delivery timeline for the launchers is 2028 and 2029, allowing the armed forces to start training personnel. The missiles are expected to be delivered in 2030 and 2031, bringing the operational system within four years. Hanwha has also offered industrial cooperation agreements with Norwegian companies corresponding to 120% of the contract value.
As Europe looks to build up its long-range strike capabilities, it's clear that mobile marketing will play a crucial role in this effort. The South Korean defense firm has demonstrated its ability to deliver on this front, and Norway's decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the region.