South Korea Unveils New Marine Attack Helicopter Soars with First Flight

Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI), a global leader in aircraft manufacturing, has long been recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation.

Known for its successful collaborations with industry giants like Lockheed Martin and Airbus, KAI continues to push the boundaries of aviation technology.

One of its latest milestones is the successful maiden flight of the Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH) prototype, marking a significant step forward in South Korea’s defense capabilities.

KAI’s Marine Attack Helicopter Prototype: A Major Achievement

On January 15, KAI’s newly developed Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH) took to the skies for the first time, showcasing impressive advancements in design and technology. This helicopter is specifically engineered for demanding missions, including amphibious assaults, close air support, and coastal defense.

The development of the MAH is part of a $307 million contract awarded to KAI in 2022, aimed at enhancing the Republic of Korea Marine Corps’ (ROKMC) capabilities.

A New Era for South Korea’s Defense

The MAH is based on KAI’s MUH-1 Marineon and KUH-1 Surion helicopters, which are already in service with the ROKMC. However, this new attack helicopter features significant upgrades and modifications tailored to meet the ROKMC’s evolving mission requirements.

The first test flight lasted around 20 minutes and included a range of flight maneuvers, such as takeoff, hovering, circling, and forward/backward flight tests. The flight took place at an altitude of about 100 feet, demonstrating the helicopter’s stability and flight control performance.

Advanced Features of the MAH Marine Attack Helicopter

The MAH is designed to be a powerful tool for the ROKMC, with an impressive set of specifications. It is equipped with 7.52mm machine guns and the Mistral air-to-air missile system, providing versatile armament for a range of military operations.

The helicopter boasts a top speed of 142 knots (263 km/h), a range of over 800 kilometers (497 miles), and an operational altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). These features make it well-suited for a variety of mission types, ensuring reliability and flexibility in combat situations.

Next Steps in Testing and Development

KAI is now preparing for further testing to evaluate the MAH’s speed, altitude, and performance under different conditions. The company aims to complete system development by August 2026, with the helicopter expected to meet the high-performance standards required by the ROKMC.

One of the key goals of this domestic development is to reduce training costs while enhancing operational support for the Marine Corps.

Why the MAH is a Game-Changer for South Korea

The successful first flight of the MAH marks a major step forward for South Korea’s defense capabilities. With its advanced technology and versatile design, the MAH will play a crucial role in the country’s defense strategy.

The project not only strengthens South Korea’s amphibious and naval warfare capabilities but also supports the nation’s broader efforts to maintain a strong and capable military force in the face of growing regional challenges.