South Korean KAI KUH-1E utility helicopter and LAH light attack helicopter make first appearance at Dubai Airshow 2023.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has brought two helicopters, the KUH-1E Surion utility helicopter and the LAH light attack helicopter, to the Dubai Airshow 2023, marking their debut at a major international event.

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 KAI introduced the KUH-1E for export in 2019, featuring advanced Garmin G5000 avionics, a TCAS II collision avoidance system, weather radar, and enhanced structural capabilities for external fuel tanks and weapons pylons (Picture source: KAI)

The KUH-1 Surion, operational with the Republic of Korea Army since 2013, is based on the Airbus Helicopters AS332 Super Puma design. It has given rise to various versions, including the MUH-1 Marine for amphibious assault and role-specific adaptations for firefighting, medical evacuation, law enforcement, anti-submarine warfare, and Coast Guard duties. KAI introduced the KUH-1E for export in 2019, featuring advanced Garmin G5000 avionics, a TCAS II collision avoidance system, weather radar, and enhanced structural capabilities for external fuel tanks and weapons pylons. The aircraft has a maximum airspeed of 147 knots and is capable of taking off with a maximum gross weight of 19,200 pounds. Each of its two engines is rated at 1,855 shaft horsepower (shp). The aircraft is designed to accommodate a total of 18 occupants, including 2 pilots.

The LAH has been developed from the Eurocopter EC155 following an agreement between the multinational manufacturer Airbus Helicopters and KAI made in 2015. It is capable of performing multiple mission roles including light attack, close air support, escort, and troop transport duties, replacing both the MD500 Defender and AH-1S Cobra helicopters of the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA). On 4 July 2019, the LAH conducted its maiden flight, KAI reportedly aims to complete its development in 2022. The company has prompted several conceptual variants of the LAH, including an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a troop-transport Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) model.

The presence of these helicopters at the Dubai Airshow underscores KAI's intent to market export versions globally. These helicopters represent KAI's commitment to innovation and adaptation of existing designs to meet the diverse needs of military and civilian operators, positioning them as contenders in the international helicopter market.

The LAH has been developed from the Eurocopter EC155 following an agreement between the multinational manufacturer Airbus Helicopters and KAI made in 2015 (Picture source: KAI)