Successful Localization of Main Gearbox... KAI Achieves Technological Self-Reliance in Helicopter 'Heart'

Surion Integration Verified
Targets: 27% Increase in Output, 15% Boost in Maximum Takeoff Weight

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has succeeded in localizing the main gearbox (MGB), a core component of rotary-wing aircraft.

Surion equipped with domestically produced MGB. KAI

On April 21, KAI announced that it had successfully assembled and test-operated the main gearbox (MGB), a key module of the power transmission system for rotary-wing aircraft, in Korea. This achievement comes about four years and six months after the launch of the first phase of the development project in 2021. The development process involved more than 20 domestic and international partners and over 200 specialized personnel.

This project was pursued with the goals of ▲ achieving technological self-reliance through localization of core technologies ▲ enhancing performance and safety to meet customer requirements ▲ expanding exports and securing economic viability. In particular, KAI designed the system so that the new main gearbox could be installed on the existing Surion (KUH-1) platform with minimal modifications, thereby successfully mounting this highly complex component and confirming its operational feasibility.

In 2023, KAI signed a second-phase agreement with the Agency for Defense Development to develop all components of the seven power transmission modules, assemble the main gearbox, and conduct basic performance tests.

Looking ahead, KAI plans to embark on full-scale system development after conducting various test evaluations to verify whether it can achieve its goals by 2028: a 27% increase in output, a 15% increase in maximum takeoff weight, and a 100% improvement in both overhaul intervals and lifespan.

Upon completion of power transmission system localization, the company expects to expand its business not only by upgrading the performance of the Surion, but also by increasing the water tank capacity of public-use helicopters, strengthening the capability to equip manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) systems, and developing next-generation high-speed medium helicopters.

Kim Jongchul, CEO of KAI, stated, "I would like to thank the employees, partner companies, and related organizations who worked hard to localize the highly challenging power transmission system. The successful domestic development of the main gearbox will serve as an important milestone for technological self-reliance in South Korea's defense industry."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.