Agency for Defense Development
Korea Aerospace Industries LAH-1 Miron
The Korea Aerospace Industries LAH‑1 Miron is a domestically developed light attack and reconnaissance helicopter created through a partnership between the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). Development began in 2012 as part of South Korea’s effort to replace aging legacy rotary‑wing platforms with an indigenous solution capable of operating in mountainous and maritime environments. The prototype made its maiden flight in September 2020 and entered limited operational testing in 2023, marking the first time a Korean‑designed helicopter has progressed from concept to flight without foreign airframe licensing.
Key features include a twin‑engine configuration using Safran Arriel 2E turboshafts, a composite airframe that reduces weight and radar cross‑section, and an advanced glass cockpit with helmet‑mounted display. The Miron can carry a modular payload of up to 1,200 kg, integrating machine‑gun pods, anti‑tank missiles, and electro‑optical sensors through the integrated mission management system. Its digital fly‑by‑wire controls and health‑monitoring architecture enhance survivability and maintainability.
The LAH‑1 Miron is significant because it demonstrates South Korea’s maturing aerospace industry, provides the Republic of Korea Armed Forces with a flexible, home‑grown rotary‑wing option, and positions KAI to compete in the global market for light attack helicopters.
Key features include a twin‑engine configuration using Safran Arriel 2E turboshafts, a composite airframe that reduces weight and radar cross‑section, and an advanced glass cockpit with helmet‑mounted display. The Miron can carry a modular payload of up to 1,200 kg, integrating machine‑gun pods, anti‑tank missiles, and electro‑optical sensors through the integrated mission management system. Its digital fly‑by‑wire controls and health‑monitoring architecture enhance survivability and maintainability.
The LAH‑1 Miron is significant because it demonstrates South Korea’s maturing aerospace industry, provides the Republic of Korea Armed Forces with a flexible, home‑grown rotary‑wing option, and positions KAI to compete in the global market for light attack helicopters.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 14.3 metre
- Height
- 4.3 metre
- Wingspan
- 3.9 metre
- Mass
- 4920 kilogram
Performance
- Maximum Speed
- 131 knot
- Service Ceiling
- 4572 metre
- Range
- 985 kilometre
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Agency for Defense Development
- Developer
- Agency for Defense Development
- Military Designation
- LAH
- Engine
- Turbomeca Arriel
- Wikidata ID
- Q12623877