South Korea flies its most capable Surion helicopter variant

South Korea's Surion Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH), which will be the most capable machine in the Surion range, has begun flight testing.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is ramping up production of its KUH-1 Surion helicopter, thanks to the development of two new military variants and its first export contract.

Despite falling short of initial export ambitions, recent milestones signal renewed momentum for the South Korean aerospace giant, Caliber.Az reports via Defense News.

The Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH), the most heavily armed Surion variant yet, is at the forefront of KAI’s latest efforts. Designed to support amphibious operations, the MAH features a chin-mounted 20mm cannon, stub wings for air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, and rocket pods. Development began in October 2022, with ground testing starting in October 2024.

The maiden flight of the first MAH prototype took place on December 17, 2024, though KAI announced the milestone only in mid-January. KAI President Kang Koo-young remarked, “Now that we’ve reached an important turning point, we’ll conduct more fair and reliable flight test evaluations to create an aircraft that our military and citizens can trust.” Comprehensive testing is set to conclude by August 2026.

The MAH builds on the MUH-1 Marineon platform, already in service with South Korea's Marine Corps. KAI completed the delivery of 30 Marineons in June 2023 and wrapped up production of 210 KUH-1 Surions for the Army in mid-2024.

Another new variant, the Korean Mine Countermeasures Helicopter (KMCH), is also in development. It incorporates Northrop Grumman’s Airborne Laser Mine Detection System, capable of identifying floating and near-surface moored mines.

While KAI had initially set ambitious goals to export 300 Surions over 25 years, only two had been sold internationally until recently. However, in December 2024, KAI secured its first significant export contract, selling two firefighting-configured Surions to Iraq for 136 billion won (US$92.7 million). These helicopters are scheduled for delivery by March 2029.

Cho Hyun-ki of South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration expressed optimism: “We’ll do our best to ensure that Surion can flap its wings overseas.”

Beyond military applications, civil orders continue to support Surion production. The Korea Coast Guard operates nine Surions, while the Korea Forest Service manages four. Both agencies ordered an additional helicopter each in December 2024, with deliveries planned for December 2027. In total, South Korean government agencies have contracted for 35 Surions.

With military upgrades, civil orders, and export contracts aligning, KAI's Surion production line is poised for sustained activity, reinforcing the helicopter's role as a cornerstone of South Korea's aerospace ambitions.

By Khagan Isayev