Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has entered an agreement withthe Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) to bolster the development of manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) for the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH). New concept imagery of KAI’s MUM-T system shows a Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) being accompanied by three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The LAH is a compact twin-engine combat helicopter developed by KAI that is scheduled for mass production. MUM-T is a new concept of aviation weapon systems still being developed and tested in advanced countries such as the United States and Europe.
KAI and KRIT will seek to develop autonomous co-operation and decision support system technology for small armed helicopter manned and unmanned complex systems. The major components of the agreement include the development of a mission performance system for small combat helicopters to enable MUM-T. KAI plans to successfully complete a MUM-T system through the development of canister-type unmanned aerial vehicles that can be mounted on helicopters. This includes the development of real-time composite battlefield information situation awareness technology. The two entities will also work to implement manned and unmanned combined operation decision support technology.
KAI revealed a full scale replica of its Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at ADEX 2021. The MUM-T will be able to fly for two hours and have a maximum speed of 150 km/h. It will be available in four different modules, each designed for one of the following four roles: reconnaissance, electronic warfare, deception, and suicide missions. The MUM-T can carry three kilograms or ordnance on this UAV if required. The MUM-T we offer will provide similar capabilities to the Air-Launched Effect vehicles being designed in the United States. Helicopter pilots and people on the ground will be able to communicate with this UAV.
The KAI LAH (Light Armed Helicopter) is a compact twin-engine combat helicopter that is being developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). It is capable of performing multiple mission roles including light attack, close air support, escort, and troop transport duties, replacing both the MD500 Defender and AH-1S Cobra helicopters of the Republic of Korea Army’s (ROKA). The LAH has been developed from the Eurocopter EC155 following an agreement between the multinational manufacturer Airbus Helicopters and KAI made in 2015. On 4 July 2019, the LAH conducted its maiden flight, KAI reportedly aims to complete its development during 2022.
