Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) unveiled the first prototype of the Light Attack Helicopter (LAH) at its headquarters in Sacheon city on 18 December, marking the start of the LAH programme’s test and evaluation phase.
Development of the LAH, which will have a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of approximately 4,900 kg, began in June 2015 with basic design completed in August 2016.
The prototype helicopter was assembled by November, a year after its design was finalised in November 2017. KAI aims to complete the development of the LAH, destined for the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA) service, by 2023.
Jane’s understands that company engineers will conduct a series of ground tests to validate the helicopter’s engine, propulsion, and other critical flight systems with the aim of achieving first flight in May 2019.