Northrop Grumman has delivered the first Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) to South Korea, enhancing the nation’s capability to detect and neutralize naval mines.
The delivery fulfills part of a 2023 agreement between Northrop Grumman and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to integrate US-made mine detection systems into the Korean Mine Countermeasures Helicopter (KMCH) program. The collaboration also includes engineering and design support to ensure smooth integration of the laser-based system into South Korea’s naval operations.
Once operational, the helicopter equipped with ALMDS will conduct mine detection and support missions for minehunting vessels across both coastal and deep-sea environments.
Proven Mine Detection Technology
Northrop’s AN/AES-1 ALMDS employs laser and electro-optical sensors to identify and locate mines floating near the surface. The airborne system can operate day and night, cover large coastal zones quickly, and relay precise target coordinates to enable fast neutralization.
Already in service with the US Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the ALMDS has significantly increased the speed and accuracy of mine detection operations. To date, Northrop has delivered 24 units to the US and four to Japan.
