South Korea Takes Delivery of First Laser Minehunting System From Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman has supplied the first Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) to South Korea, a move aimed at boosting the country’s ability to find and clear naval mines.

The delivery is part of a 2023 agreement between Northrop Grumman and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to equip Seoul’s new Korean Mine Countermeasures Helicopter program with American mine detection technology.

The partnership includes engineering and design support to integrate the laser-based detection system into South Korea’s naval fleet.

Once fielded, the new rotary-wing platform will undertake support tasks for minehunting vessels in both shallow waters and deep-sea operations.

‘Trusted Technology’

Northrop’s AN/AES-1 ALMDS uses lasers and sensors to detect and locate floating or near-surface mines in the water.

The system can operate during the day or night without being tethered to a ship, scanning large coastal areas quickly and sending precise coordinates to help helicopters neutralize identified threats.

The technology is already used by the US Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, where it has improved how fast and accurately crews can spot underwater mines.

Northrop has so far delivered 24 systems to the US Navy and four to Japan.

“ALMDS exemplifies Northrop Grumman’s ability to deliver trusted technology for critical missions, consistently performing where it matters most,” said Janice Zilch, vice president of multi-domain command and control programs at Northrop Grumman.

“Our collaboration with KAI shows our commitment to advancing defense capabilities together with Korean industry and delivering vital capabilities, ensuring the safety and security of our allies.”