This agreement enhances Northrop Grumman’s collaboration with Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration and designates Genohco as a key supplier.
Northrop Grumman Corporation and Genohco have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the Republic of Korea’s Mine Countermeasures Helicopter (KMCH) program. This strategic agreement has strengthened Northrop Grumman’s industrial collaboration with the Republic of Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration and outlines Genohco’s role as a key supplier.
The MOU builds on the momentum of the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) 2023 contract. under this MOU Northrop Grumman will deliver Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) solutions and technical support during the Engineering, Manufacturing, and Design phase of the KMCH initiative. Genohco will contribute to the production of ALMDS hardware components.
What is Korea’s Mine Countermeasures Helicopter (KMCH) Program?
The KMCH program aims to enhance South Korea’s capabilities in detecting and neutralizing maritime mines. This program involves equipping helicopters with advanced mine detection systems, such as Northrop Grumman’s Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS). The KMCH initiative is designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of mine countermeasures operations, this ensures safe navigation and maritime security.
Northrop Grumman’s involvement in the KMCH program leverages its deep expertise in systems integration and digital engineering, reinforcing its role in enhancing global maritime security.
Janice Zilch, vice president, of multi-domain command and control programs, Northrop Grumman, “Industry collaborations with companies such as Genohco and KAI are key to Northrop Grumman’s approach to technology development across the globe. Our team is committed to delivering advanced solutions to meet the security needs of the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of National Defense.”
Role of Northrop Grumman Corporation and Genohco in the KMCH program
Northrop Grumman Corporation:
Northrop Grumman is the main contractor for the KMCH program, responsible for delivering the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) solutions. This includes providing technical support throughout the Engineering, Manufacturing, and Design phases of the program.
Northrop Grumman leverages its extensive expertise in systems integration and digital engineering to enhance the KMCH program. The company is tasked with ensuring that the ALMDS units are effectively integrated into the helicopter platforms and meet the operational requirements of the Republic of Korea.
Genohco:
Under the MOU, Genohco is designated as a key supplier supporting the manufacturing of ALMDS hardware components. This involves producing and supplying the necessary parts and assemblies for the ALMDS systems.
Richard D. Yoo, senior director of business development, Genohco, said, “We are honored to be working with Northrop Grumman, a world leader in the defense industry. Projects like the KMCH program allow global contractors to collaborate with Korean industry. Being part of Northrop Grumman’s supply chain network, we look forward to providing innovative solutions together in the global market.”
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Genohco’s role ensures that the hardware components required for the ALMDS are produced to the required specifications and standards. This support is crucial for maintaining the overall quality and performance of the mine detection systems.
The AN/AES-1 ALMDS is designed to detect, classify, and locate floating and near-surface moored mines with high precision. Capable of operating day or night and mounted on various helicopter platforms, the ALMDS ensures rapid area searches and accurate target geo-location to facilitate subsequent neutralization efforts.
