Poland’s WB Group and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have signed a landmark executive agreement to establish a joint venture focused on the development and production of advanced rocket ammunition in Poland. The partnership aims to enhance Poland’s defense capabilities by supplying missiles for the Polish Armed Forces’ rocket launcher systems.
Strategic Signing at KADEX
The agreement was formalized on October 2, 2024, at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) held at the Gyeryongdae military headquarters in South Korea. Piotr Wojciechowski, President of WB Electronics S.A., the flagship company of WB Group, and General Director Son Jae Il of Hanwha Aerospace signed the agreement. Key defense figures, including Paweł Bejda, State Secretary at the Polish Ministry of National Defence, and Hyun Ki Cho from South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), attended the event, underscoring the partnership’s strategic importance.
Focus on Missile Development and Technology Transfer
The agreement outlines the establishment of a joint venture to develop and produce missiles, specifically in Poland, as part of a comprehensive strategy to bolster the country’s defense manufacturing capabilities. The partnership builds upon a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on September 4, 2024, which laid the groundwork for the joint production of CGR-080 missiles, designed for Poland’s Homar-K rocket launcher systems.
The new venture not only aims to produce the CGR-080 missiles but also focuses on technology and knowledge transfer to the Polish defense industry. This collaboration seeks to advance the development of new missile types, tailored to meet the requirements of the Polish Ministry of National Defence. The agreement details essential steps, including the acquisition of property for the production facility, safety evaluations, and a defined timeline for implementation.
“Polonisation” of Production: Boosting Polish Involvement
In their efforts to finalize the project, WB Group and Hanwha Aerospace have emphasized the “Polonisation” of the manufacturing process. This approach aims to maximize Polish involvement by adapting production methods, ensuring that local industry benefits significantly from the collaboration. The companies’ industrial feasibility study confirmed the viability of the project, outlining market, engineering, and R&D plans. It also highlighted the necessary logistical and organizational steps to secure land and establish the new production facility.
Strengthening Poland’s Defense Capabilities
This joint venture represents a critical step in strengthening Poland’s defense infrastructure and self-reliance. By bringing advanced missile technology and production capabilities to Poland, WB Group and Hanwha Aerospace are laying the foundation for a robust defense industry that can respond to the needs of the Polish Armed Forces and future export markets.
A Strategic Alliance for Regional Security
The agreement symbolizes a broader strategic alliance between Poland and South Korea, aimed at enhancing regional security and defense cooperation. By combining South Korea’s advanced missile technology and Poland’s industrial capabilities, the two countries are poised to become leaders in missile production within Europe and beyond. The partnership aligns with Poland’s long-term defense strategy, positioning the country as a manufacturing hub for state-of-the-art defense products under its national “Polonisation” initiative.
As the joint venture progresses, both companies are expected to develop further innovations in missile technology, solidifying Poland’s defense capabilities and its role as a critical player in the global defense market.
