The rating enables Hanwha Aerospace to raise funds directly in international debt markets. The company said it would use the rating to strengthen confidence among international investors and support funding and cash-flow management as it expands in the global defence market.
S&P Global Ratings pointed to the growth potential of Hanwha Aerospace’s core platforms, including the K9 self-propelled howitzer and the Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system. The agency also cited the company’s expanding weapons exports, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, and its rapid delivery capability as key strengths.
S&P also noted Hanwha Aerospace’s important role in South Korea’s national security. It pointed to the company’s record order backlog of approximately 37 trillion won as of the end of 2025, which is expected to support stable revenue growth and improving profitability in the years ahead.
The rating followed a record year for Hanwha Aerospace. In 2025, the company posted consolidated revenue of 26.7 trillion won and operating profit of 3.09 trillion won, its highest-ever annual results.
The performance was driven by growth in defence and the consolidation of Hanwha Aerospace’s shipbuilding business. The company said the rating would support its position as it continues to grow in the global defence market.
Kim Cheol-hong, Chief Financial Officer of Hanwha Aerospace, said, “This rating, on a level comparable to the world’s leading defense companies, will help secure trust in discussions with foreign governments and in local investment talks. Building on it, we will strengthen our global competitiveness across space and aviation as well as defense.”
The rating gives Hanwha Aerospace a new financing platform as it seeks to compete more broadly with major international defence companies. The company said the assessment reflected the strength of its platforms, exports, delivery capability and order backlog.
