Korea Aerospace Industries
Korea Aerospace Industries KUH-1 Surion
The Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KUH‑1 Surion is a medium‑size utility helicopter developed jointly by KAI and Airbus Helicopters. Initiated in 2005 under the Korean Ministry of National Defense, the program aimed to replace the aging MD‑500 and UH‑1 helicopters in the Republic of Korea Army and Navy. First flight took place on 1 August 2010, and serial production began in 2015, with deliveries to the Korean armed forces and export customers such as the Philippines and Poland.
The Surion incorporates a twin‑engine configuration powered by Safran Ardusat 2S1 turboshafts, a full‑glass cockpit, and a glass‑fiber composite airframe that reduces weight while enhancing durability. It can carry up to 10 troops or 2,200 kg of external cargo, and features a modular mission suite that supports SAR, medevac, reconnaissance and naval anti‑submarine warfare. Advanced avionics include de‑icing, night‑vision compatible displays and automatic flight control.
Its significance lies in establishing South Korea as an independent rotorcraft producer, reducing reliance on foreign platforms, and showcasing indigenous technology integration. The Surion also serves as a basis for civilian variants and future upgrades, reinforcing KAI’s strategic role in both military and commercial aviation markets.
The Surion incorporates a twin‑engine configuration powered by Safran Ardusat 2S1 turboshafts, a full‑glass cockpit, and a glass‑fiber composite airframe that reduces weight while enhancing durability. It can carry up to 10 troops or 2,200 kg of external cargo, and features a modular mission suite that supports SAR, medevac, reconnaissance and naval anti‑submarine warfare. Advanced avionics include de‑icing, night‑vision compatible displays and automatic flight control.
Its significance lies in establishing South Korea as an independent rotorcraft producer, reducing reliance on foreign platforms, and showcasing indigenous technology integration. The Surion also serves as a basis for civilian variants and future upgrades, reinforcing KAI’s strategic role in both military and commercial aviation markets.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 19 metre
- Height
- 5 metre
- Wingspan
- 3.3 metre
- Mass
- 8709 kilogram
Performance
- Maximum Speed
- 270 kilometre per hour
- Service Ceiling
- 4595 metre
- Range
- 828 kilometre
Production & History
- First Flight
- 2010
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Korea Aerospace Industries
- Developer
- Korea Aerospace Industries, Agency for Defense Development
- Military Designation
- KUH-1
- Engine
- General Electric T700
- Operator
-
National Police Agency of South Korea Korea Coast Guard (2014 - 2017) Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters Republic of Korea Marine Corps Korea Forest Service Republic of Korea Army
- Wikidata ID
- Q201116