Security Levels

Office of Aviation Forces (CG-711)

MH-65: Dolphin

Overview:

The H-65 helicopter — the Coast Guard’s most ubiquitous aircraft — is certified for operation in all-weather and night-time operations, with the exception of icing conditions. There are 100 H-65s in the inventory. The H-65 is the primary Coast Guard aircraft used aboard certified cutters during deployments. FLIR, a heads-up display (HUD) and other avionics upgrades are being installed aboard the H-65 as part of the ongoing conversion-sustainment initiative to sustain the airframe for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the re-designation of Airborne Use of Force (AUF) MH-65Cs reflects the installation of armament and a significantly upgraded communications package. Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) Jacksonville was the first operational Coast Guard unit to employ the MH-65C and has a total of 10 aircraft assigned to replace the MH-68A Stingray aircraft. The current transition to the MH-65D is designed to address obsolete component issues and is slated to be complete by summer of 2015. In FY17 the Coast Guard will introduce the MH-65E to the fleet. Currently under development, the MH-65E will feature an all-glass cockpit with advanced navigation capabilities to meet emerging FAA requirements.

Air Stations

Specifications

Power Plant: MH-65C: Two 853 shp Turbomeca Arriel 2C2-CG has turbine engines
Performance: Max Speed: 175 knots (MH-65C)
Cruising Speed: 148 knots (MH-65C)
Service Ceiling ~10,000 ft
Range: 290 nautical miles (MH-65C)
Weight: Gross Weight:9,480 lbs (MH-65C)
Dimensions: Rotor Diameter: 39ft 2in
Length: 44ft 5in
Height: 13ft 5in
Armament: Single 7.62mm M240B/H machine gun; 7.62mm shoulder-fired precision weapon
.50-caliber shoulder-fired precision weapon
Crew: 2 pilots
1 flight mechanic
1 rescue swimmer

Last Modified 1/12/2016