The KF-X (Korean Fighter-eXperimental) combat aircraft prototype was introduced to the press before launch, while light armed helicopters (LAH) were also displayed on the production line, which the Republic of Korea is working on. The platform’s manoeuvring movements of up to 450 meters per minute were also displayed to the press.
Developed to replace the existing AH-1F and 500MD/Tow Defender helicopters in the inventory, the LAH was first introduced in December 2018 and made its first flight the following year.
The LAH was developed based on a light civil helicopter (LCH), the domestic version of the Airbus Helicopters H155 twin-engine platform. The work, led by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), is planned to maximize partnership with LCH in sub-systems and parts, reducing the cost of production and operation of LAH.
The rotary wing platform draws its power from two Arriel 2L2 turboshaft engines developed by Safran Helicopter Engines and Hanwha Techwin.
211216-N-QI061-1222 NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (December 16, 2021) An MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), sits on the flight line at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Dec. 16, 2021. VUP-19, the Navy’s first Triton squadron, will continue to maintain and operate the aircraft off the East Coast to further develop the concept of operations and refine tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan T. Beard/ Released)