South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced that the country’s first domestically developed Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH) successfully completed its inaugural flight test in December 2024.
The MAH, an armed variant of the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) MUH-1 Marineon helicopter, is designed to enhance firepower and support amphibious operations. The Marineon itself is derived from the KUH-1 Surion helicopter, making the MAH a fully indigenous addition to South Korea’s defense arsenal.
The MAH’s first flight took place on December 17, 2024. During the approximately 20-minute test, the helicopter demonstrated its flight control performance and stability. According to KAI, the test included “taxiing, takeoff, hovering, circling, forward and backward flights, and maximum horizontal flight at an altitude of about 30 meters.”
DAPA stated that three MAH prototypes were completed in 2024, with ground testing beginning in October. The agency confirmed that full-scale flight tests and evaluations are scheduled to commence in 2025, with development expected to conclude in the second half of 2026.
“MAH” takes off for the first time.
MAH is a new, dedicated attack helicopter designed for the South Korean Marine Corp.
20mm triple barreled chain gun, Taipers missiles, France Mistral, proven platform, latest avionics..that sounds promising.
I should call this Korean Hind.
It… pic.twitter.com/JPCxDPjJqp— ハク Mason (@mason_8718) January 22, 2025
Equipped with technology proven in South Korea’s Light Armed Helicopter (LAH-1), the MAH features advanced avionics and weapon systems. It is the first domestically developed helicopter capable of carrying air-to-air missiles, a capability that significantly enhances its operational versatility.
DAPA described the helicopter’s primary role as providing escort support for RoKMC Marineon helicopters during amphibious assaults and delivering fire support to ground units upon request. The helicopter’s modular design also allows for the integration of a variety of armaments.
“The MAH project not only bolsters the Marine Corps’ air support capabilities but also strengthens our preparedness for potential threats in regions such as the Northwest Islands,” said Brig. Gen. Ko Hyung-seok, head of DAPA’s Helicopter Division. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to ensuring the successful completion of the program within its planned timeline.
This project reflects South Korea’s broader ambition to enhance self-reliance in defense production while advancing its aerospace industry. With an investment of KRW438.4 billion (USD 300 million) since 2022, the program is a testament to the country’s focus on developing cutting-edge military technology.
The successful development of the MAH is expected to strengthen South Korea’s defense posture, particularly in regions requiring rapid deployment and air support. DAPA’s plans to expand the MAH program are seen as a significant step toward enhancing both domestic and regional security.