Hanwha Aerospace announced on the 18th that it has appointed Ben Hudson (photo), the CEO of Hanwha Defense Australia, as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for defense in Europe and the United Kingdom.
Hudson, the CEO who will oversee operations across Europe, including the Australian business, noted on the same day, "I am honored to join at such an important time" and stated, "We will provide solutions to the defense and security issues facing European customers and build sustainable sovereign capabilities." He has a background working for European defense companies such as BAE Systems in the United Kingdom and Rheinmetall prior to joining Hanwha Aerospace.
This appointment of CEO Hudson comes as Hanwha Aerospace expands its footprint in Europe. Hanwha Aerospace has been providing economic support and technology transfer to strengthen cooperation with countries belonging to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union. Hanwha Aerospace has previously exported K9 self-propelled howitzers and multiple launch rocket systems to countries such as Poland, Norway, and Finland.
Michael Coulter, CEO of Hanwha Global Defense, said, "Europe is a key part of Hanwha Aerospace's long-term strategy" and added, "We aim not just to expand our presence, but to invest in the sovereign capabilities of each country." He further noted, "The appointment of CEO Hudson will serve as a starting point for launching the next phase based on trust, long-term cooperation, and shared security goals."