What Hanwha Aerospace does

Hanwha Aerospace is a South Korean defense and aerospace company that develops, manufactures, and exports full-spectrum weapons systems, aircraft engines, naval propulsion, and space launch vehicle components. Core products include the K9 155mm self-propelled howitzer (deployed in 10 countries across four continents), Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system (80/160/290km guided variants), Redback and K21 infantry fighting vehicles, Cheongung-II medium-range surface-to-air missile defense system, fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft engines, naval vessel engines and lithium battery systems for submarines, and KSLV (Nuri) space launch vehicle components. The company traces its lineage to 1952 (founded under its current structure in 1977), was renamed from Hanwha Techwin in 2017, and completed its merger with Hanwha Munitions in April 2023. It is publicly traded on the Korea Exchange (ticker 720500.KS) as a core subsidiary of Hanwha Group, operating 10 domestic manufacturing/R&D sites and 8 overseas facilities across Australia, the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Vietnam.

The company generates revenue through government-to-government (G2G) defense procurement contracts, selling complete weapons systems and aero-engine components under project-based, multi-year agreements. Primary customers are national defense ministries and armed forces in South Korea, Poland, Estonia, Romania, UAE, India (manufactured locally by Larsen & Toubro as K9 Vajra-T), Norway, Australia (produced as AS9 Huntsman and AS21 Redback in Geelong), Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Egypt. To meet offset requirements, Hanwha establishes licensed local production facilities in key export markets (Australia, India, UAE, Romania) and operates regional headquarters in Melbourne, McLean (VA), Warsaw, Bucharest, and Riyadh. Distribution channels include major international defense exhibitions (Eurosatory, BSDA, Sea Air Space, NextRise), strategic partnerships with Western defense primes (Northrop Grumman, Thales, Rolls-Royce), and an active investor relations program.

FY2025 consolidated revenue reached 26.703 trillion KRW with operating profit of 3.089 trillion KRW, representing five-fold operating profit growth from 594 billion KRW in 2023. Order backlog stands at approximately 37 trillion KRW (~$24B). The company targets 40 trillion KRW revenue and 5 trillion KRW operating profit by 2030 as part of its ambition to become a top global aerospace and defense company. In June 2026, S&P assigned a first-ever A- credit rating with stable outlook, while a fatal explosion at the Daejeon plant (June 1, 2026, killing 5 workers and injuring 2) affected production lines that generated 1.32 trillion KRW (4.94% of revenue) in 2025 and triggered the first companywide production shutdown in company history.

Name

Hanwha Aerospace

Legal name

Hanwha Aerospace CO., LTD.

Website

https://hanwhaaerospace.com

Company type

Public

Founded year

1977

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

5,001–10,000 employees

Short description

Hanwha Aerospace is a South Korean defense and aerospace company that develops and exports full-spectrum weapons systems — including K9 howitzers, Chunmoo rocket launchers, Redback IFVs, and missile defense — to government defense ministries across 10+ countries, with ~$24B order backlog and aero-engine capabilities.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Defense and Aerospace Systems

NAICS

Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing (336414), Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit and Propulsion Unit Parts Manufacturing (336415), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413)

SIC

Guided Missiles & Space Vehicles & Parts (3760), Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec (3728), Ordnance & Accessories, (No Vehicles/Guided Missiles) (3480)

akta.pro primary industry

Military Space Systems (Defense Spacecraft) (IMABACAC)

akta.pro secondary industries

Military Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) & Autonomous Aerial Platforms (IMABAMAC), Naval Weapons & Launch Systems (Guns, VLS, Torpedoes) (IMABAKAC)

Keywords

• Defense weapons systems
• Military aircraft engines
• Missile defense systems
• Armored fighting vehicles
• Naval propulsion systems

Headquarters

HQ city

Changwon

HQ country

South Korea

HQ region

Asia

Offices19 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Defense weapons systems sales: Hanwha Aerospace generates the majority of revenue from the sale of complete weapons systems to government defense ministries and agencies globally, including K9 self-propelled howitzers, Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers, Cheongung-II missile defense systems, Redback infantry fighting vehicles, K21 IFVs, and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. Revenue is one-time and project-based per contract, typically multi-year.
2. Aircraft engine parts and MRO services: Manufacturing of aircraft engine components and modules for fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, including commercial aero-engine parts through Hanwha Aero Engines Vietnam and Hanwha Aerospace USA Connecticut facilities. Also provides MRO (maintenance, repair, overhaul) services for aero engines.
3. Naval propulsion and power systems: Supply of ship engines, generators, and lithium battery systems for naval vessels and submarines. Includes ESS (Energy Storage System) for naval applications.
4. Space launch vehicle components and satellite systems: KSLV (Korea Space Launch Vehicle) engine and component manufacturing, satellite bus systems, and space-related propulsion technology. Revenue from government space programs and potential future launch services.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

Hanwha Aerospace designs, develops, manufactures, and sells complete defense weapons systems and aerospace products across four domains. Land systems include the K9 self-propelled howitzer, Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher, Redback infantry fighting vehicle, Cheongung-II missile defense, and L-SAM ballistic missile defense. Air systems cover fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft engines, guided weapon propulsion, and dual-use turbofan engines for UAVs. Sea systems comprise naval gas turbine engines, generators, and submarine lithium battery systems. Space systems include KSLV-II Nuri launch vehicle components and satellite bus systems. Products are sold primarily to government defense ministries worldwide.

Product overview

Hanwha Aerospace is a comprehensive defense and aerospace company offering integrated solutions across four domains: Space (launch vehicles, satellites), Air (aircraft engines, propulsion systems), Land (artillery systems, armored vehicles, missile systems), and Sea (naval engines, battery systems). The core product lines include the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer family and Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system for land forces, the REDBACK infantry fighting vehicle, fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft engines, space launch vehicles, and naval propulsion systems. These products range from individual systems to integrated combat solutions, with export variants adapted for international markets including India (K9 Vajra-T), Australia (AS9 Huntsman, AS21 Redback), and various European nations. The company operates as a total defense solution provider, combining its own manufactured components with subsystem partnerships to deliver comprehensive aerospace and defense capabilities.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• K9 Thunder: 155mm self-propelled howitzer system exported to multiple countries globally
• Chunmoo
• REDBACK
• AS9 Huntsman
• AS21 Redback

Products and services

• K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer 155mm self-propelled howitzer with operational range exceeding 40 kilometers, automatic fire control system with GPS, 48-round auto-loader, 67 km/h mobility, and rapid deployment (60-second deployment from march, 30-second fire-from-stop). K9A1 variant features 360-degree firing and 40km range with K307 ammunition. Export variants include K9 Vajra-T (India, manufactured by L&T with 60% local content), AS9 Huntsman (Australia), and K55A1 (Korean military). Sold to government defense ministries worldwide.
• Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) with guided missile variants offering 80km, 160km, and 290km range. Modular design allows integration with different launcher platforms including Thales X-Fire system. Combat-proven and exported to Estonia (9 launchers under €290 million G2G contract), Norway ($862 million agreement), and other NATO allies. Provides scalable precision-strike capability for various operational requirements.
• Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle Next-generation tracked infantry fighting vehicle with NATO-standard 30mm gun, anti-tank guided missile, ISU rubber track system, maximum speed 65 km/h, range 600 km, and 60% longitudinal / 30% lateral gradeability. Selected by Australia for Land 400 Phase 3 program and produced locally at Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Geelong, Victoria. Designed for next-generation mechanized combat operations.
• K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle Tracked infantry fighting vehicle with 40mm autocannon and anti-tank guided missiles, in service with the Republic of Korea Army. Lightweight amphibious-capable IFV providing mechanized infantry support.
• K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicle Automated ammunition resupply vehicle designed to work alongside K9 howitzers, capable of carrying and transferring 48 rounds of 155mm ammunition to support sustained artillery operations.
• TIGON Wheeled Armored Vehicle Wheeled armored vehicle platform with modular design for various mission requirements including reconnaissance, fire support, troop transport, and integration with unmanned systems in Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) combat formations.
• Cheongung-II Surface-to-Air Missile System Medium-range surface-to-air missile (M-SAM) defense system with operational range meeting Middle Eastern market requirements. Cost-competitive alternative to the U.S. Patriot system at approximately one-third the price. Provides medium-range air defense and missile interception capabilities for area and point defense.
• L-SAM Ballistic Missile Defense System Korea's indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile (L-SAM) system for ballistic missile defense at extended ranges, complementing the medium-range Cheongung-II system in a layered air defense architecture.
• Fixed-Wing and Rotary-Wing Aircraft Engines Gas turbine engines for fixed-wing aircraft and turbo shaft engines for helicopters. Used in military platforms (KF-21, T/FA-50, Surion) and civil aviation applications. Over 40 years of engine technology and experience. Manufactured domestically and at Hanwha Aero Engines Vietnam (Hanoi) and Hanwha Aerospace USA (Cheshire, CT). Includes MRO (maintenance, repair, overhaul) services for aero engines.
• Dual-Use Turbofan Engine for UAVs Turbofan engines designed for both military and civilian unmanned aerial vehicle applications. Developed in partnership with the Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA). Part of Hanwha's strategic expansion into the UAV propulsion market, with five types of lightweight, heat-resistant materials and four core components for aircraft engines in development.
• Electric and Hybrid Propulsion Systems Electric and hybrid propulsion systems for various mobility platforms including aircraft and naval vessels. Supports naval and land platform electrification initiatives and sustainable mobility applications.
• Naval Vessel Engines and Generators Gas turbine engines and power generation systems for naval vessels. Provides propulsion and onboard power for surface combatants and support ships. Part of Hanwha Aerospace's naval systems portfolio, including components for Hanwha Ocean's KSS-III submarines.
• Submarine Lithium Battery Systems (ESS) Lithium battery Energy Storage Systems (ESS) for submarines and naval vessels, supporting naval electrification, extended submerged operations, and air-independent propulsion capabilities.
• Space Launch Vehicle Technology (KSLV-II Nuri) Space launch vehicle technology including KSLV-II (Nuri) for satellite deployment. Hanwha Aerospace manufactures engines and key components for the Korean Space Launch Vehicle program, with capabilities for future space exploration and launch services. Next-generation launch vehicle programs in development at Daejeon R&D Campus.
• Satellite Bus Systems and Services Satellite bus systems and related services including communication satellites and Earth observation satellite systems, supporting both government and commercial space programs.

Quantifiable outcome

• Revenue grew from 594 billion won (2023) to 3.089 trillion won operating profit (2025), a five-fold increase in three years.
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers13 records

Segments2 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature5 records

Partnerships

14 partnerships are on record, tiered core, minor and strategic.

• Generation 5 Holding (UAE)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 June 2026Hanwha Aerospace signed a partnership agreement with UAE-based Generation 5 Holding at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris to produce and sell the K9 155mm self-propelled howitzer in the Middle East. The deal enables Hanwha to establish local production capabilities in the UAE, expanding its footprint in the Middle East defense market. The K9 howitzer is currently in service with 10 countries globally.
• Thales (France)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 22 June 2026Hanwha Aerospace and Thales signed a MoU at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris to explore integrating Hanwha's Chunmoo guided missiles (80km, 160km, and 290km range variants) with Thales' X-Fire modular launcher platform. The integration aims to develop scalable precision-strike capability for European and global defense requirements. Hanwha seeks to broaden market access beyond the complete Korean launcher-and-missile package, positioning the combined solution for European market opportunities.
• Korean Startups and Technology Companies (via NextRise 2026)minorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 June 2026Hanwha Aerospace became the first major Korean defense company to participate in NextRise 2026 (Korea's largest startup exhibition), showcasing key components of the K9 howitzer and K239 Chunmoo system with 21 partner companies. Disclosed 12 internal R&D challenges spanning ground weapons, guided weapons, and aero-engines, inviting proposals from startups for co-development partnerships through its Open Innovation portal (deadline July 31, 2026). Conducted one-on-one meetups with six defense-seeking startups.
• Maritime Launch Services Inc. (Canada)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 28 May 2026Hanwha Aerospace Co. set to sign an MoU with Canadian spaceport operator Maritime Launch Services Inc., according to Hanwha Defence Canada CEO Glenn Copeland. The partnership is part of Hanwha's strategic move to strengthen its bid for Canada's potential $60 billion (12-submarine) Patrol Submarine Project, pairing the submarine bid with a space partnership to gain competitive advantage in Canada's defense procurement process.
• Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 26 May 2026Hanwha Aerospace began developing dual-use turbofan engines for unmanned aerial vehicles in partnership with the Aerospace Research Institute (KASA). The engines are designed for both military and civilian applications, marking a strategic expansion into the UAV propulsion market. KASA announced a five-year initiative (June 2026) to develop five types of lightweight, heat-resistant materials and four core components for aircraft engines, backed by 42.9 billion won (including 29.7 billion won in government funding).
• Milrem Robotics (Estonia)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 14 May 2026Hanwha Aerospace signed a teaming agreement with Estonian unmanned systems firm Milrem Robotics at BSDA 2026 in Bucharest for Romania's unmanned ground vehicle program. The partnership combines Hanwha's wheeled platforms (Arion-SMET, GRUNT) with Milrem's tracked THeMIS system. A live Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) demonstration was conducted near Bucharest on May 12, 2026, integrating their unmanned systems in simulated battlefield conditions for Romanian military officials. Hanwha Aerospace Romania acts as prime contractor.
• Hanwha Systems (affiliate, South Korea)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 13 May 2026Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems co-exhibited at BSDA 2026 in Romania showcasing next-generation unmanned ground vehicles, air defense, and naval solutions. Advancing European localization strategy through joint UGV development with Milrem Robotics and H-ACE Europe construction. Both affiliates participate in NATO and EU rearmament efforts across Romania, Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, and Spain.
• Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI)coreGTM or Marketing Partner · 11 May 2026Hanwha Aerospace is supplying three additional Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher systems to Estonia under a government-to-government contract signed between KOTRA and the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments. This follows the approximately €290 million G2G contract signed in December 2025 covering six Chunmoo launchers and missiles. Estonia has now ordered a total of 9 Chunmoo launchers. Delivery scheduled by end of 2027.
• Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association (APMA) CanadastrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 30 April 2026Hanwha Aerospace signed an MoU with Canada's APMA and Hanwha Ocean to establish a joint venture for producing military and special-purpose vehicles in Ontario. The venture is contingent on Hanwha Ocean's KSS-III Batch-II submarine being selected for Canada's Patrol Submarine Project. KPMG analysis projects Hanwha's Canadian investments could generate approximately 22,500 full-time jobs per year and a cumulative GDP contribution of C$94.1 billion ($68.8 billion) between 2026 and 2044.
• Government of Alberta, CanadastrategicGTM or Marketing Partner · 23 April 2026Hanwha Group signed an MoU with the government of Alberta to formalize a strategic partnership covering energy infrastructure and defense-related industrial cooperation. Key affiliates including Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Power participate, with collaboration spanning LNG, hydrogen, carbon capture, ammonia-based energy, and defense supply chains. Aligned with Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy and directly tied to Hanwha's $40.7 billion submarine bid for Canada's Patrol Submarine Project.
• Northrop Grumman (USA)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 22 April 2026Hanwha Aerospace signed an agreement with Northrop Grumman at Sea Air Space 2026 in Maryland to jointly develop the first-stage solid-fuel rocket motor for Northrop's Advanced Reactive Strike missile system. The partnership leverages Hanwha's manufacturing capacity and technology to accelerate development and mass production, with a demonstration planned for 2027. Part of Hanwha's strategy to expand its presence in the US defense market, the world's largest.
• Government of Canada / Nova ScotiastrategicGTM or Marketing Partner · 22 April 2026Hanwha Group expanded its outreach to Canadian provinces ahead of Canada's submarine procurement bid. Following similar outreach to Nova Scotia officials in April 2026, Hanwha signed an MoU with Alberta's provincial government in Edmonton. The company is competing for Canada's $40.6 billion Patrol Submarine Project alongside Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems. Hanwha positions itself as supporting Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy and Buy Canadian Policy.
• Korea-India Defence Accelerator (KIND-X) / DAPA India and KoreacoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 20 April 2026India and South Korea agreed to launch the Korea-India Defence Accelerator (KIND-X) at their April 2026 summit, establishing a defense innovation platform to connect businesses, start-ups, investors, and universities. Jointly led by DAPA and India's Defence Innovation Organisation. Builds on the success of the K9 Vajra-T artillery system and extends cooperation to air defense systems, AI for military applications, autonomous systems, satellites, and critical minerals. Phase III of K9 cooperation also agreed, aiming for 70% indigenous content.
• Larsen & Toubro (India)coreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing Partner · 19 April 2026Hanwha Aerospace has a long-standing licensed manufacturing partnership with India's Larsen & Toubro for K9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzers. L&T manufactures the K9 Vajra-T at its Hazira plant with Hanwha technology transfer. Local content increased from 50% (batch 1) to 60% (batch 2) to 70% planned (batch 3). The K9 Vajra-T has been combat-proven and is the cornerstone of India-South Korea defense industrial cooperation. L&T and Hanwha Aerospace signed MOUs to extend cooperation into air defense systems and next-generation defense platforms.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves9 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Lockheed Martin: Largest global defense prime with overlapping missile defense (Patriot, THAAD), precision strike (GMLRS, HIMARS), and aerospace portfolios. Directly comparable to Hanwha's Cheongung-II air defense, Chunmoo MLRS, and KSLV space launch vehicle business; both target NATO and Middle East customers.
• BAE Systems: UK-based defense prime with armored vehicle (CV90, Challenger), artillery (ARCHER), and naval systems. Closest Western parallel to Hanwha's K9 howitzer and Redback IFV portfolio, with comparable global G2G sales model and S&P-equivalent credit profile.
• General Dynamics: US defense prime operating Stryker armored vehicles, M1 Abrams tanks (jointly with KAI-relevant systems), and combat systems. Direct competitor in the global IFV and armored vehicle market where Hanwha sells Redback and K21. Notably, Hanwha's board director Michael Coulter is a former GD VP.
• Rheinmetall: Germany's largest defense company, specializing in armored vehicles (Lynx, KF41), artillery (L52), and ammunition — directly overlapping Hanwha's K9, K10, and ammunition businesses. Strong Western competitor in European rearmament markets where Hanwha is expanding via Romania and Poland.
• Northrop Grumman: US defense prime with missile defense, precision strike, and space launch capabilities. Partner and competitor — Hanwha is co-developing the solid-fuel rocket motor for Northrop's Advanced Reactive Strike missile — directly comparable in missile propulsion and space launch vehicle propulsion segments.
• KNDS: European artillery and armored vehicle champion formed by KMW (Leopard 2, Boxer) and Nexter (CAESAR, Leclerc). Direct competitor in the global self-propelled howitzer market against Hanwha's K9 and in IFV markets against the Redback and K21.
• Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI): Korea's flagship aerospace manufacturer producing KF-21 fighter, T-50/FA-50 trainer, and Surion helicopter. Domestic peer in aerospace platforms; Hanwha supplies engines to KAI platforms and is increasing its stake to become KAI's second-largest shareholder.
• Textron: US defense and aerospace company producing armored vehicles (Stryker via GD partnership, TAPV), Cessna aircraft, and Bell helicopters. Comparable in mixed aerospace-and-defense manufacturing footprint, particularly aircraft engine component supply chain overlap.
• Hyundai Rotem: South Korean manufacturer of K2 main battle tanks, armored vehicles, and railway equipment. Domestic peer in armored vehicle and weapons systems with comparable government customer base and technology depth in tracked platforms.

Emerging players

• Elbit Systems: Israeli defense electronics and systems company producing PULS multiple rocket launcher, unmanned ground vehicles, and air defense systems. Emerging competitor in the precision-strike and UGV segments where Hanwha's Chunmoo and MUM-T systems compete, though smaller in armored vehicle scale.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/@hanwhaaerospaceofficial
• Facebookfacebook.com/Hanwhaaerospace
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/hanwha-defense-international

Compliance5 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles10 records

Subsidiaries8 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A2 records

Investments6 records

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Hanwha Aerospace