Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has intensified efforts to secure international sales for its Surion 8t-class twin-engined helicopter in civil and parapublic sectors, marking a surprise debut at the Verticon exhibition in Atlanta in early March.
Over 250 Surion units have been delivered to South Koreas armed forces, with more than 50 civil variants supplied to organizations like the Korea Forest Service, national police, and coastguard. The helicopters only export success to date is a 2024 sale of two units to Iraqs interior ministry in a firefighting configuration, according to KAI executive Sung-Hyun Um.[1]
Powered by Hanwha Techwin/GE Aerospace T700-701K engines, the Surion is undergoing upgrades including a new in-house transmission set for 2029-2030 service, boosting payload by 500-700kg and reducing reliance on Airbus Helicopters.[1] KAI is also partnering with Helitak to integrate a 2,700-litre firefighting tank, with an initial unit slated for Gongwon province in 2027.[1]
Production of KAI’s Light Civil Helicopter, based on the Airbus Helicopters EC155, has ended after four units.[1] The Verticon appearance underscores KAIs push for global opportunities beyond domestic and limited exports.[1][6]