US Coast Guard MH-65E Dolphin

About the MH-65 Dolphin

The H-65 Dolphin has been in the Coast Guard’s inventory since 1984. The Coast Guard upgraded the helicopters with state-of-the-market enhancements that extend mission capabilities and improve their reliability and maintainability. Since 2007, the entire fleet has been equipped with new engines that add 40% more power and airborne use of force capabilities, redesignating the aircraft as MH-65s. Other upgrades included the addition of digital technology, including GPS and inertial navigation, flight control, weather radar and cockpit instruments.

The short range recovery helicopter performs search and rescue, law enforcement and homeland security missions. Certified for operation in all-weather and night-time operations, with the exception of icy conditions, the MH-65 helicopter routinely deploys aboard certified cutters providing critical manned airborne surveillance and interdiction capabilities.

MH-65 Dolphin General characteristics

Length (with rotor blades): 44 feet 5 inches
Rotor Diameter: 39 feet 2 inches
Height: 13 feet 3 inches
Maximum Weight: 9,480 pounds
Cruise Speed: 148 knots
Range: 350 nautical miles
Endurance: Three hours

*Performers are subject to change without notice