Seoul: The defense chiefs of South Korea and Estonia have signed an agreement to support Estonia's bid to acquire the Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher, as confirmed by South Korea's defense ministry. The deal marks a significant step in the defense collaboration between the two nations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed by South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and Estonia's Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur. Both countries have agreed to back Tallinn's plan to procure the South Korean-made rocket artillery system. However, specific details regarding the amount, size, and timeline of the acquisition remain undisclosed.
The signing took place during a meeting in Seoul, where both defense chiefs discussed strategies to bolster defense and arms industry cooperation. This meeting coincided with the ongoing Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition, which concludes on Friday. The leaders also committed to enhancing their defense exchanges in several areas, including high-level dialogues, military training, and cybersecurity.
Minister Ahn highlighted the deepening partnership between South Korea and Estonia, which is grounded in their shared geographic and historic experiences. He also urged Estonia to maintain its interest in South Korean defense products, citing systems like the Chunmoo and the Redback infantry fighting vehicle, as Estonia continues to modernize its military capabilities.
Notably, Estonia is among ten foreign countries that have adopted the South Korean-manufactured K9 self-propelled howitzer, joining the ranks of Poland, Vietnam, and Romania.