Hanwha Targets European Defense Market with Multi-Layered Air Defense Networks and Space AI Following K9 Success

Participation in Poland’s MSPO Defense Exhibition from September 8 to 11

Presenting Comprehensive Defense Solutions Including MUM-T and Space AI

Showcasing "K9A2" Targeting the Polish EC3 Project Contract

First Reveal of AI Process Analyzing Satellite Imagery

Hanwha is expanding its presence in the European defense market, building on the trust established through exports of the K9 self-propelled howitzer and the Chunmoo multiple-launch rocket system to Poland. The company aims to further strengthen its position in the local market by introducing integrated defense solutions that cover ground to space operations, including multi-layered air defense networks, manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) systems, unmanned surface vessels (USV), and space artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

A bird's-eye view of the Hanwha integrated booth participating in MSPO 2026, held in Kielce, Poland, from the 8th. Hanwha Aerospace

On September 7, Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems announced that they will jointly participate in the "34th International Defense Industry Exhibition (MSPO 2026)" to be held in Kielce, Poland, from September 8 to 11. Under the slogan "Proven Partnership, Strategic Capabilities, Sovereign Defense," the two companies plan to set up an integrated exhibition hall spanning 274 square meters.

This exhibition will see the participation of around 1,000 defense companies from more than 40 countries worldwide.

Targeting the European region, where efforts to strengthen air defense networks are intensifying, Hanwha Aerospace will showcase its multi-layered air defense system, which offers step-by-step responses to threats at low, medium, and high altitudes. The lineup includes the L-SAM long-range surface-to-air missile, the H-SHORAD short-range air defense system, the H-Shield anti-drone system, and the 40mm wheeled unmanned air defense system.

Each air defense system adopts a complex armament approach, allowing for the selection of interception methods based on the type of threat. They can be integrated with Hanwha Systems' command and control system (C2) and interceptor drones to enhance comprehensive response capabilities.

Hanwha Systems will present "Cheongwang," Korea's first laser-based air defense weapon in mass deployment, along with a 50kW-class mobile laser armored vehicle and a 20kW-class laser tactical vehicle. These laser weapons are highly cost-effective, with a firing cost of about 2,000 won per shot, and can neutralize small targets such as micro-drones within seconds at the speed of light.

In the field of ground unmanned systems, the companies will unveil the MUM-T operation concept, in which the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer, unmanned amphibious multiple-launch system, and unmanned ground vehicle (H-UGV) operate in tandem. While the manned self-propelled howitzer provides fire support, unmanned systems handle reconnaissance and maneuver tasks, reducing the risk of personnel exposure and expanding operational coverage. Additionally, Hanwha will display its export-version infantry fighting vehicle (K-NIFV) and active protection system (APS), which bolster the survivability of ground forces.

In the maritime sector, Hanwha plans to accelerate its entry into the unmanned systems market by unveiling the "Striker-S," which combines the unmanned surface vessel (USV) with the Chunmoo launch platform, targeting the naval modernization initiatives of Baltic Sea nations.

During this exhibition, Hanwha Aerospace will also present the upgraded K9A2 self-propelled howitzer, along with a high-performance ammunition package including the 155mm course-correcting fuse and Modular Charge System (MCS) that enhance firing accuracy. With these products, Hanwha aims to actively pursue the third batch (EC3) of the Polish K9 program contract.

Responding to the growing demand for long-range precision strike weapons in Europe, four models of Chunmoo guided missiles will be unveiled. Hanwha will also demonstrate its maintenance capabilities after weapon system exports, including the Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS), which diagnoses equipment condition in real time and predicts maintenance needs, together with the K9 turret simulator and training programs for support, maintenance, and repair (MRO).

On September 9 at MSPO 2026, Hanwha Systems will hold an AI solution launch event, revealing for the first time a process in which AI analyzes live footage sent from an operational satellite in real time. This solution leverages imagery from three types of satellites—electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR), and synthetic aperture radar (SAR)—using AI for automated object detection, situational pattern analysis, and anomaly detection, thereby supporting decision-making for commanders and other users.

A Hanwha representative stated, "The trust established through the K9 and Chunmoo projects is Hanwha's greatest asset," adding, "We will continue to offer customized solutions and actively contribute to the sovereign defense and development of the defense industry ecosystem for NATO allied countries."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.