MBDA and South Korea KAI join forces to arm KMAH attack helicopters with advanced Mistral ATAM missile.

On October 17, 2023, a pivotal development in global defense partnerships was unveiled as MBDA announced a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the integration of the Mistral ATAM air-to-air missile system on the Korean Marine Attack Helicopter (KMAH). Intended for exclusive use by the Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC), this sophisticated system is a variant of the renowned Mistral short-range air-to-air missile and will significantly elevate South Korea's defense capabilities.

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  MBDA announced a contract with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the integration of the Mistral ATAM air-to-air missile on the Korean Marine Attack Helicopter (KMAH) (Picture source: Korean Aerospace Industries)

The Republic of Korea Marine Corps has been on a modernization drive, preparing itself to execute multidimensional amphibious operations and to rapidly intervene in the event of threats across its expansive maritime borders, especially the 3,215 islands it is mandated to protect.

This contract comes amid South Korea’s ongoing efforts to expand and modernize its military assets. The Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC) has been developing multidimensional amphibious capabilities, which include a fleet of MUH-1 Marineon helicopters, a variant of the KUH-1 Surion. Given the geopolitical complexities and evolving defense requirements, South Korea's Ministry of Defense had previously been evaluating options for attack helicopters. Contenders included Boeing’s AH-64E Apache, Bell Textron's AH-1Z Viper, a Sikorsky S-70i variant, and Turkish Aerospace Industries' T129. However, South Korea ultimately opted for a domestic solution—a revamped, armed version of the MUH-1 Marineon called the KMAH, specifically designed for the ROKMC.

The Mistral ATAM air-to-air missile system, an advanced variant of the highly effective Mistral missile, boasts fire-and-forget engagement, ease of operation, and unparalleled kill probability. The system comes with two launchers, each holding two missiles, and can be integrated seamlessly into the combat systems of specialized attack helicopters or through simplified control setups in multi-purpose helicopters. Characterized by its operational simplicity and minimal crew workload, the Mistral ATAM offers a high level of performance, operable at speeds up to 200 knots and at altitudes above 15,000 feet. The system also features a large off-boresight capability and precise missile seeker aiming, complemented by a shaped trajectory for top-down or long-range target interception, with an optional proximity fuze mode. Built as a lightweight, fully digital, heat-seeking missile, Mistral ATAM maintains a 96% proven success rate and offers unparalleled reliability, making it highly effective in both peacetime and wartime conditions.

The Mistral ATAM missile system, weighing 18,7 kg with a 1,86m length and a 90 mm diameter, has a maximum intercept range of 6,5 km. It is known for its fire-and-forget engagement mode, high kill probability, and operational flexibility.

The integration of the Mistral ATAM system into the KMAH is particularly significant for the protection of South Korea's 3,215 islands. These islands are strategic assets and potential flashpoints that necessitate a quick and effective military response. The Mistral ATAM system provides marine helicopters with enhanced anti-air capabilities, vital for safeguarding these maritime territories.

Mistral ATAM is already operational on helicopters like the French Army Aviation's Gazelle and Tiger attack helicopters, and its integration into India's HAL Rudra is also underway. This extensive operational record signifies its robust performance and compatibility with various platforms.

MBDA and KAI’s partnership isn't limited to the Mistral ATAM. They are also collaborating on integrating the Meteor beyond the visual range missile system into the KF-21 Boromae fighter aircraft. This illustrates the expanding scope of their collaboration and underlines MBDA’s role in augmenting South Korea’s homegrown defense technologies.