N Korean military helicopters deployed near maritime border

South Korean media is reporting that North Korea has deployed around 20 helicopters at two bases near South Korea's Baeknyeong Island in the West Sea since May. Baeknyeong Island is South Korea's northernmost island that lies just south of the Northern Limit Line, the (disputed) de facto maritime border with North Korea.

North Korea operates no dedicated attack helicopters, however it's Mi-2, Mi-4 and Mi-8 transport helicopters can be armed with unguided rockets, with a South Korean military source indicating that the helicopters are deployed "independently of any military exercises".

A quick glance at Google Earth would indicate the two closest North Korean airbases are Taetan and Kwail.

VIDEO: North Korean live firing exercise

An interesting, almost 20 minute video of a North Korean live-firing exercise involving army artillery and multiple rocket launchers, naval bombardment and airstrikes. From a military aviation perspective, some things to look out for are KPAF MiG-21s, -23s and -29s, along with Su-25s, Mi-2 and Mi-8 helicopters and An-2 biplane transports carrying a paratroop (or supply) drop. Observing the exercise was North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un and a multitude of miltary brass and VIPs. Some of the footage in here is archival footage, and others seemingly repeated. Still, well worth a watch, particularly if you're interested in North Korean military hardware.

A big shout out to Tim Robinson for the heads-up!

Burmese rebels shoot down army helicopter

Ethnic Kachin rebels have claimed that they have shot down an unidentified Russian-built helicopter belonging to Myanmar's Air Force on the 4th of January. The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) said the pilot died in the crash landing in a paddy field near Sinlum Bum village in N’Mawk (Momauk) Township, and that the helicopter was shot down by small arms fire during a resupply mission.

According to the Asian Military Review, the Myanmar Air Force operates the Mil Mi-2, Mi-8 and Mi-24/35 helicopters, all of which have varying transport capabilities.

Burma buys Mi-2 and Mi-24 helicopters for its air force

According to The Irrawaddy, the ruling Burmese junta has purchased 12 Mi-2 Hoplite transport helicopters as well as 50 Mi-24 Hind attack helicopters from Russia. It is expected that the helicopters will be used in combating the numerous insurgencies in the country.