On the eve of the arrival in France of the Korean minister, Mme. Myeong-Sook Han, and at the precise time when France and Korea are celebrating the 120th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Korean government has given its final approval for the launch of the new KHP military transport helicopter, developed in cooperation with Eurocopter.
For an estimated total amount of 6 to 8 billion USD, this program which concerns 245 helicopters, represents the largest defense contract ever signed between a European company and South Korea.
The aim of this program is to replace a fleet of currently-aging American-manufactured corporate and transport helicopters.
Korea Aerospace Industry (KAI) will be the main contractor for this unprecedented program. As first partner of KAI, Eurocopter will provide technical assistance for the development of the aircraft as well as certain sub-assemblies during the production phase.
In addition, the agreement between the two companies makes provision for the export marketing of this helicopter via a joint company. The estimated contract is in the order of 300 helicopters.
"Eurocopter is extremely proud to have been selected as the main partner of Korea Aerospace Industry for the KHP program. Through this choice, Eurocopter sees the confirmation of its technological advance within the field of military helicopters and its exceptional capacity to work in close cooperation with international manufacturing partners" Fabrice Brégier stated during the ceremony.
Eurocopter is a 100% subsidiary of EADS. EADS is an international company which works in the aeronautical, space, defense and associated services sectors. In 2005, EADS generated an income of 34.2 billion Euros with a workforce of approximately 113,000 persons. The EADS Group includes Airbus, the airplane manufacturer, Eurocopter, the world’s first helicopter manufacturer and the MBDA "joint venture", world leader in the field of missiles. EADS is the major partner in the Eurofighter consortium. EADS is the main contractor for the Ariane launcher and is developing the A400M military transport airplane. Finally, EADS is the first manufacturing partner for the European Galileo satellite navigation system.
