KAI completes assembly of localised main gearbox for Surion

KAI is pressing forward with efforts to develop an indigenous transmission for the Surion helicopter.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has completed assembly of a new locally designed main gearbox (MGB) for the KUH-1 Surion helicopter.

The new MGB has been installed on a Surion and undergone a trial run, says KAI.

KAI launched its effort to develop an indigenous MGB for the Surion in 2021. The project has involved 20 domestic and international partners and over 200 technicians.

Objectives include localisation of the MGB, improved performance, and improving the potential for exports.

The existing fleet of Surions and variants use an MGB produced by Airbus Helicopters. KAI adds that the new MGB can be installed on the Surion with “minimal modifications”.

The new MGB will undergo “rigorous testing” until 2028. Specific goals include a 15% increase in the Surion’s maximum take-off weight, improved serviceability, and a longer lifespan.

The MGB work is part of a broader effort to localise the Surion’s transmission.

“I would like to thank all KAI officials, participating partner companies, and related organisations for their efforts in localising the power transmission system, which has high technical difficulty,” says KAI president Kim Jong-Chul.

“The successful domestic development of this main gearbox will be a key milestone in completing the technological independence of the Republic of Korea’s defence industry.”