Northrop Grumman and Hanwha sign agreement to develop rocket booster for AReS extended-range strike weapon system

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

Northrop Grumman and Hanwha Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to collaborate on the development of a key component for an advanced strike system. The agreement focuses on the initial phase of work on a first-stage solid rocket booster for Northrop Grumman’s Advanced Reactive Strike capability.
(l. to r.) Kevin Schoonover, executive vice president - missiles, Hanwha Defense USA, Michael Coulter, chief executive officer, Hanwha Defense USA, Frank Morley, vice president, international business development, Northrop Grumman and Ron Boxall, vice president government programs, Northrop Grumman signed the MOA at Sea-Air-Space 2026. Photo: Northrop Grumman.

Northrop Grumman and Hanwha Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to collaborate on the development of a key component for an advanced strike system. The agreement focuses on the initial phase of work on a first-stage solid rocket booster for Northrop Grumman’s Advanced Reactive Strike capability.

 

The AReS system is a surface-launched, extended-range weapon designed to provide stand-off strike capability in highly contested and denied environments. It is intended to enhance operational reach against evolving air and maritime threats.

The collaboration will combine Northrop Grumman’s system development expertise with Hanwha’s manufacturing capabilities. The companies aim to accelerate development and delivery timelines by leveraging global industrial capacity.

Frank Morley said: “In today’s environment of rapidly evolving air and sea threats, advancing weapon systems that ensure dominance for the U.S. and its allies is critical.” He added: “This MOA with Hanwha reinforces Northrop Grumman’s commitment to collaborating with the Korean industrial base to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that outpace emerging threats.”

 

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Michael Coulter said the partnership reflects the importance of industrial cooperation. “As the battlefield evolves and our adversaries develop advanced capabilities, a strong industrial base is critical to helping the U.S. and its allies deter modern threats,” he said.

He added that the companies intend to expand their joint efforts on the program. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration on AReS in partnership with Northrop Grumman, and leveraging Hanwha’s global industrial scale and advanced manufacturing in this critical effort.”

 

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