KAI to Supply South Korean Coast Guard with 11th White Eagle Search-and-Rescue Helicopter

Korea Aerospace Industries will supply the Korea Coast Guard with its 11th White Eagle search-and-rescue helicopter, part of an effort to replace aging Russian-made KA-32 aircraft.

KAI said it signed the contract on the first day of the month for one medium helicopter. Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2029. The coast guard is seeking to strengthen rapid maritime patrols and its ability to search for and rescue people after maritime accidents.

The White Eagle, known as the KUH-1CG, is based on the domestically developed Surion KUH-1, which was developed in 2012. KAI adapted the aircraft for coast guard duties, including maritime counterterrorism, maritime crime enforcement, search and rescue, and emergency transport of island residents to medical facilities on the mainland.

The helicopter is equipped with an active electronically scanned array search radar, electro-optical and infrared cameras, and an automatic flight system. It also carries de-icing and anti-icing systems for winter operations, along with a hoist and searchlight for rescue missions.

The aircraft has already gained operational experience in sea rescues and emergency patient transfers around Jeju and Ulleungdo, where strong winds are frequent. A KAI representative said the company would strengthen follow-up support so coast guard crews could carry out missions more safely.

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We will make even greater efforts on follow-up support so that coast guard helicopter crews can carry out their missions more safely.