Northrop Grumman is securing from defense and aerospace communications company Genohco the hardware components for South Korea’s mine countermeasures helicopter program.
The hardware supply, set through a recently signed memorandum of understanding between the two companies, supports Northrop’s 2023 contract with Korea Aerospace Industries to deliver airborne laser mine detection systems to South Korea’s KMCH project.
Northrop Grumman said it will also provide technical support to the mine countermeasure program’s engineering, manufacturing and design phase, which is expected for completion in 2027.
Northrop’s ALMDS customers to date are the U.S. Navy, which has procured 24 units, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force with four systems.
Janice Zilch, Northrop Grumman vice president for multi-domain command and control programs, cited the partnerships with Genohco and KAI as examples of the company’s global approach to technology development. She also expressed the Northrop team’s commitment to “delivering advanced solutions” for South Korea’s security.
In an earlier statement, Chang-heon Han, KAI executive vice president, rotary wing division, said ALMDS are designed for the rapid detection of floating and near-surface moored mines, which “will make a significant improvement” to the Korean Navy’s mine defense capabilities.