Korean helicopter tested under arctic conditions

Korean Aerospace Industries has recently completed the low-temperature flight testing of their Light Armed Helicopter (LAH). The second prototype, LAH 002, went through a nine-week evaluation program ending earlier this month in Yellowknife, Canada. The helicopter’s engines and other equipment were tested and found capable of functioning properly after exposure to a temperature of minus 32° C for twelve hours.

The KAI Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) is being developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA). It can be deployed in multiple missions such as light attack, close-air support, escort, and troop transport.

The design of the Light Armed Helicopter is based on the Airbus EC155, and is powered by two Safran Arriel turboshaft engines. The version used in the LAH is the latest version of the Arriel, the 2L2. This engine is capable of producing a maximum take-off power of 1,032 shp.

The helicopter performed its maiden flight in July 2019. The RoKA is expected to acquire up to 200 LAHs to replace the ageing fleet of Bell AH-1 Cobra and MD 500 Defender helicopters. The first LAH is scheduled to enter service with the RoKA by 2023.

Photo: Korean Aerospace Industries