Eurocopter MH-65 Dolphin

The short-range rescue helicopter built for coastal operations.

Overview

Eurocopter France ICAO: MH-65 1980–Present $9 million (2017)

The Eurocopter MH-65 Dolphin is a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter derived from the AS365 Dauphin. Introduced in the 1980s, it is used for short-range search and rescue and law enforcement. The aircraft operates primarily in coastal environments.

Live Fleet Activity (MH-65)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Turbomeca Arriel 2C2-CG
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 853 shp · 636 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
4
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
44 ft 5 in  ·  13.53 m
Tail height
15 ft 9 in  ·  4.80 m
Fuselage diameter
7 ft 10 in  ·  2.38 m
Wing span
39 ft 2 in  ·  11.94 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
9,500 lb  ·  4,300 kg
Max landing weight
7,500 lb  ·  3,400 kg
Max payload
3,400 lb  ·  1,550 kg
Fuel capacity
330 gal · 1,200 L · 1,000 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
180 kt  ·  207 mph  ·  333 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
355 nm  ·  410 mi  ·  660 km
Fuel burn
—
Ceiling
18,000 ft  ·  5,500 m
Rate of climb
1,750 ft/min  ·  9 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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USCG MH 65 Dolphin

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Operational Context

Eurocopter MH-65 Dolphin — short-range maritime helicopter

The MH-65 entered service in 1985 as part of the Coast Guard’s modernization program. Based on the French AS365 Dauphin, it features a twin-engine configuration and enclosed tail rotor. The helicopter is compact and well suited for shipboard operations.

Powered by two Turbomeca Arriel turboshaft engines producing approximately 740 shaft horsepower each depending on variant, the MH-65 cruises at around 140 knots (259 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 9,500 pounds (4,309 kg). The aircraft carries rescue equipment and mission sensors.

The Dolphin has supported search and rescue, interdiction, and environmental missions. It complements larger rescue helicopters in Coast Guard service. The aircraft continues to operate from shore bases and cutters.