Rotorcraft
Korea’s Helicopters Make Dubai Debut
Both helicopters are showing their capabilities in the daily Dubai flying displays
Korean KUH-1E helicopter
The KUH-1E is an export version of the helicopter in use as an assault transport by the Korean army. (Photo: David McIntosh)

Two helicopters from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) are taking part in the daily flying display at the Dubai Airshow. Although the company has shown the KUH-1E utility helicopter and LAH light attack helicopter in public in South Korea, their presence in Dubai marks their first appearance at a major international show.

In service with the Republic of Korea Army since 2013, the KUH-1 traces its design origins from the Airbus Helicopters AS332 Super Puma. The initial utility/assault version, named Surion in Korean service, has served as the basis for several derivatives. They include the MUH-1 Marineon amphibious assault helicopter for the Republic of Korea Marine Corps and role-specific versions for firefighting, medical evacuation, law enforcement, anti-submarine warfare, and coast guard duties.