Eurocopter AS550 C3 Fennec

The light utility helicopter built for military reconnaissance and liaison.

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Eurocopter AS550 C3 Fennec © George Seguin

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Overview

Eurocopter France ICAO: AS50 1990–Present Active $2.6 million

The Eurocopter AS550 C3 Fennec is a military development of the AS350 family. Introduced in the 1990s, it offers light attack and reconnaissance capability. The aircraft is widely exported for defense roles.

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Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Turbomeca Arriel 2B
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
632 shp · 471 kW
Avionics
VEMD Instrument Panel
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
6
Crew
—
Cabin width
5 ft 5 in  ·  1.65 m
Cabin height
4 ft 5 in  ·  1.35 m
Cabin length
7 ft 11 in  ·  2.42 m
Exterior length
42 ft 5 in  ·  12.94 m
Tail height
10 ft 11 in  ·  3.34 m
Fuselage diameter
6 ft 1 in  ·  1.85 m
Wing span
35 ft 1 in  ·  10.69 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
4,950 lb  ·  2,250 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
3,100 lb  ·  1,400 kg
Fuel capacity
140 gal · 500 L · 400 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
133 kt  ·  153 mph  ·  246 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
355 nm  ·  410 mi  ·  660 km
Fuel burn
2.87 nm/gal  ·  1.40 km/L
Ceiling
17,320 ft  ·  5,300 m
Rate of climb
2,028 ft/min  ·  10 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Royal Thai Army Aviation Center AS550

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Operational Context

Eurocopter AS550 C3 Fennec — light military utility helicopter

The AS550 C3 builds upon the proven AS350 airframe. It entered service in the 1990s with upgrades for military missions, including reinforced structure and external hardpoints. The helicopter is suited to reconnaissance and light attack duties.

A single turboshaft engine producing approximately 850 shaft horsepower powers the Fennec. Cruise speed is around 140 knots (259 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 4,800 pounds (2,177 kg).

The AS550 C3 has been adopted by numerous armed forces worldwide. Its flexibility and compact size make it suitable for a range of missions. The aircraft remains active in both armed and utility configurations.