South Korea has successfully conducted the inaugural flight of its domestically developed mine countermeasures rotary-wing aircraft prototype in South Gyeongsang Province. This significant milestone is part of a comprehensive 347.7-billion-won ($256.6 million) initiative unveiled in 2022, aimed at equipping the Republic of Korea Armed Forces with a locally produced helicopter designed to support naval minehunter vessels.
Following this first flight, the new aircraft will undergo extensive testing to assess its flight performance, evaluate technology systems, and ensure adherence to safety protocols. Leaders in the project, namely Korea Aerospace Industries and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), plan to advance the helicopter’s development until the year 2026.
The helicopter is based on the MUH-1 Marineon, which is a maritime variant of the established KUH-1 Surion utility helicopter. Upon its completion, it will serve as a significant asset for mine countermeasure ships, enabling them to navigate through complex operational environments while performing essential missions. Its capabilities are set to include anti-mine tasks in shallow waters and vital amphibious landing routes. The aircraft will be equipped with advanced technology such as laser minehunting solutions, unmanned underwater vehicles, and other autonomous systems.
Brig. Gen. Kang Joong-hee, head of DAPA’s Aircraft Business Division, expressed confidence in the project’s progression, stating, “Through the mine-sweeping helicopter project, the Navy’s mine-hunting capabilities will be strengthened, and stable removal capabilities will be secured, which is expected to greatly enhance the Navy’s wartime mission performance capabilities.” He further assured that the development timeline would proceed smoothly until completion.
Earlier this year, South Korea also accomplished the initial flight of the amphibious assault subvariant of the MUH-1, which is being tailored for the Republic of Korea Marine Corps in Gyeongnam, indicating the ongoing commitment to enhancing the nation’s advanced maritime capabilities.
