Key facts
- South Korea's military has suspended flights of its LAH-1 Miron helicopters due to engine defects.
- Corrosion and cracks were found in the engines of 47 out of 57 supplied helicopters.
- The engines were originally developed by French company Safran S.A.
- Hanwha Aerospace Co. is the local producer and supplier of the helicopters.
- The military plans to inspect and improve its quality management systems.
South Korea's military has grounded its fleet of locally manufactured LAH-1 Miron helicopters following the discovery of significant engine defects. The suspension affects 47 out of 57 supplied choppers, according to Rep. Kang Sun-young of the opposition People Power Party.
The defense procurement agency identified corrosion in the engines of these helicopters in April. Further inspection revealed cracks, possibly linked to the corrosion, in 38 of the vehicles. The engines were originally developed by French aerospace company Safran S.A., with Hanwha Aerospace Co. serving as the local producer and supplier.
Officials indicated that the defect likely occurred in the diffusers, a critical component for engine airflow stabilization, potentially during the assembly process. The LAH-1 Miron helicopter was introduced to replace older attack helicopters, and the military aims to have approximately 160 operational by 2031.
In response to the incident, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration stated its intention to inspect and enhance its quality management systems.