South Korea completes development of Marine Corps attack helicopter

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) have announced the successful completion of the system development phase for the Marine Corps' new amphibious attack helicopter (MAH). The development project, which began in October 2022 with a contract valued at 440 billion won, aims to enhance the Marine Corps' ability to provide air cover for landing forces and support ground combat units with aerial firepower.

Based on the domestic 'Marineon' utility helicopter, the MAH integrates advanced avionics and weapon systems from the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH). Key capabilities include the ability to engage ground targets and counter aerial threats such as enemy attack helicopters and drones using air-to-air missiles. The helicopter is equipped with a 20mm turret-mounted machine gun, 70mm guided and unguided rockets, the 'Cheon-geom' air-to-ground guided missile, and integrated target acquisition systems.

Testing has confirmed the aircraft's suitability for maritime operations, including corrosion resistance against salt spray and compatibility with naval vessels. DAPA plans to begin mass production in 2027, with the goal of deploying the aircraft to the Marine Corps to ensure complete aerial combat capability for amphibious operations.