On January 15, 2025, South Korea conducted the maiden flight of its domestically developed Marine Corps Amphibious Assault Helicopter (MAH) at Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in Sacheon. The event marked a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities and self-reliance in military technology. The test flight lasted 20 minutes and assessed the helicopter’s flight controls, including hovering, circling, and forward flight.
The MAH is based on the MUH-1 Marineon utility helicopter already in service with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC). Designed to provide fire support, the helicopter is equipped with a 20mm nose-mounted gun, anti-tank guided missiles, and air-to-air missiles. It features cutting-edge avionics, including a fully integrated glass cockpit, helmet-mounted displays, and night vision capabilities. Built for maritime operations, the helicopter includes corrosion-resistant materials, folding rotor blades, and flotation devices for emergency water landings.
“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
The MAH’s development began in 2022 under a $308 million contract from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). The first three prototypes were completed in 2024, with ground tests successfully conducted in October. Following the maiden flight in December 2024, the helicopter will undergo full-scale testing throughout 2025. Deployment is expected by late 2026. Once operational, the MAH will work alongside the Marineon helicopter fleet to provide critical fire support during amphibious landings, protect transport helicopters, and assist ground forces in high-stakes operations.
“The MUH-1, or Marine Utility Helicopter, better known as “Marineon” is the Surion-variant Amphibious helicopter that KAI developed to enhance the ability which the Marine Corps carries out the multi-dimensional high-speed land and take-off operations.”https://t.co/7vjPpBsfOf pic.twitter.com/KAp6GVyLVi
— Aaron-Matthew Lariosa (@Aaron_MatthewIL) July 31, 2022
The MAH is part of South Korea’s broader strategy to modernize its military and strengthen its amphibious capabilities. Brigadier General Koh Hyung-seok, head of DAPA’s Helicopter Business Division, highlighted the project’s significance, stating that the helicopter would enhance the Marine Corps’ ability to respond to national security threats and conduct both offensive and defensive operations.
