The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced on the 14th that it successfully conducted daytime and nighttime live-fire tests of the Marine Attack Helicopter (MAH) currently under development in the country.

Live-fire testing is a critical procedure for verifying the helicopter's daytime and nighttime combat capabilities. DAPA explained that it served as an opportunity to confirm the practical combat capabilities necessary for conducting landing operations. DAPA noted, "The success of the firing test is a very important milestone for securing the foundation for the Marine Corps to operate an independent air power in actual combat."

The armament system of the amphibious assault helicopter (MAH). /Courtesy of Defense Acquisition Program Administration

The Marine Attack Helicopter is being developed by applying the latest avionics equipment from the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) MIRON to the Marine Utility Helicopter (MUH) MARINON, which is based on the Korean multi-purpose helicopter SURION.

The first test flight of the prototype took place in December last year. Following this, the successful tests of the machine gun and rocket armaments are expected to lead to formal flight evaluation tests in the latter half of this year. Live-firing of guided rockets and air-to-ground missiles will take place. Development is expected to be completed around the second half of 2026.

The Marine Attack Helicopter will be operated by the Marine Corps in the future. The Marine Utility Helicopter (MUH) MARINON currently in operation will be responsible for supporting the troops during assaults on enemy territories. If there is a request from units conducting operations on the ground, it is also expected to perform combat support missions providing powerful firepower.

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