Hanwha signs counter-drone deal with Estonian startup

South Korea’s defense manufacturer Hanwha Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding on Feb. 9, 2026, with Estonia-based startup Frankenburg Technologies to jointly develop counter-unmanned aircraft systems for next-generation land weapon platforms.

The signing ceremony took place during World Defense Show 2026 and was attended by Dong-hyeon Kim, head of the Land Systems Business Group at Hanwha Aerospace, and Kusti Salm, chief executive of Frankenburg Technologies. The agreement formalizes cooperation between a major Asian defense producer and a smaller European technology firm focused on missile and counter-drone systems.

Under the memorandum, the two companies will cooperate on the development and technical integration of counter-UAS equipment intended for land platforms. The system is currently under review for initial application on Hanwha’s next-generation command armored vehicle under development, according to the announcement.

Hanwha Aerospace will be responsible for integrating the counter-UAS system into its vehicles and platforms, while Frankenburg Technologies will develop the guided missiles, launchers, and fire-control software. The companies did not disclose financial terms, production timelines, or the number of systems planned under the cooperation.

Hanwha described the partnership as part of its broader effort to address the increasing use of unmanned aerial systems on the battlefield through integrated land-based defenses. The focus of the collaboration is on combining Hanwha’s platform integration experience with Frankenburg’s missile and fire-control technologies.

Dong-hyeon Kim said: “This MOU serves as a pivotal opportunity to enhance the survivability and competitiveness of next-generation land weapon systems against the growing threat of drones on the future battlefield.” He added, “Hanwha is committed to contributing to Estonia’s security capabilities and the revitalization of its defense industry through joint development and technological cooperation across various fields.”

Kusti Salm said the agreement represents a shift from concept work to full-scale development. “This collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace marks the start of a concrete, large-scale development program. Partnering with a global leading company like Hanwha on a next-generation command vehicle demonstrates the maturity of our missile and C-UAS technologies and our ability to contribute meaningfully to major defense platforms,” he said.

The deal continues Hanwha Aerospace’s expansion of cooperation with Estonia’s defense sector. The company previously signed memoranda of understanding with several Estonian firms, including Milrem Robotics, Nortal, SensusQ, MARUDUK, and Go Craft. Hanwha said it plans to extend cooperation into additional areas such as unmanned surface vehicles and ammunition production.

Hanwha’s relationship with Estonia began in 2020 with the delivery of K9 self-propelled howitzers and expanded in late 2025 with the supply of the Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system. The company said it intends to build on this foundation when proposing solutions for Estonia’s planned infantry fighting vehicle modernization program.

World Defense Show 2026 is being held in Riyadh from Feb. 8 to Feb. 12 with support from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense, bringing together major defense manufacturers and emerging technology firms.