AS565 MBe
The all-weather, multi-role force multiplier
The AS565 MBe naval version of Airbus’ Panther family of helicopters is an all-weather, multi-role medium rotorcraft, designed for operation from ship decks, offshore locations and land-based sites. It is made for a multitude of naval and coast guard missions such as maritime surveillance, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, offshore patrolling and counter-terrorism.
Dependable
The AS565 MBe is powered by two Safran Arriel 2N turboshaft engines for reliable performance in high and hot conditions. It features modern cockpit avionics that include an automatic flight control system (AFCS) and flight management system.
Some 250 helicopters in the Panther/Dauphin family are operated by maritime customers in more than 20 countries, including the U.S. Coast Guard’s fleet of around 100 MH-65s.
Technologically advanced
Enhancing the AS565 MBe’s mission capabilities are its advanced avionics and systems, including multifunction and tactical displays for the crew, while the FADEC full authority digital engine control system and vehicle and engine management display (VEMD) improve safety and reduce pilot workload.
Modular mechanical assembly design – along with fiberglass Starflex rotor heads, composite tail rotor blades and airframe – contribute to significant reductions in maintenance time and costs.
Additionally, the AS565 MBe incorporates a new-generation, 100% composite Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor, which provides high manoeuvrability, low external sound levels, and optimal safety for passengers, ground and air crews.
Going to sea
The AS565 MBe is fully qualified to operate from over 100 classes of NATO ships, and complies with NATO standardisation agreements (STANAGs) regarding tie-down fittings, fuel hoses and DC/AC electrical connectors.
The helicopter’s use of a hydraulically-activated harpoon with deck-lock securing enables the AS565 MBe to land and take off from ship decks regardless of the wind direction.
Maintainable
For its deployment from ships, forward bases and other remote locations, the AS565 MBe is designed for simple and safe maintenance access.
Replacement times are rapid for such assemblies as the engine, main rotor gearbox and blades, as well as main and tail rotor hubs. Also contributing to the serviceability are easy operational maintenance features such as fast lubrication of the main rotor head and tail rotor.
See the HCare Services section for more information about services at Airbus Helicopters.
Anti-surface unit warfare
The AS565 MBe is highly effective in anti-surface unit warfare missions (ASuW), including over-the-horizon targeting (OTHT) for ships with long-range anti-ship missiles.
By acting as the ship’s principal weapon system, it can search, classify, shadow and strike with precision well beyond the horizon. At Best Endurance Speed (VBE) the aircraft has a loiter time in excess of four hours.
Enforcement
Rapid and quiet, Airbus’ AS565 MBe is a highly cost-effective tool against piracy, smuggling and illegal fishing, as well as for all policing roles in exclusive economic zones (EEZs) or areas of national interest.
For law enforcement and anti-smuggling missions, the helicopter has a multi-hour endurance at loiter speeds, and can be configured for snipers and rapid boarding parties with weapons such as cabin-mounted machine guns. Other mission equipment includes a range of sensors, searchlights and loudspeakers.
Photos and videos
For law enforcement and anti-smuggling missions, the helicopter has a multi-hour endurance at loiter speeds, and can be configured for snipers and rapid boarding parties with weapons such as cabin-mounted machine guns. Other mission equipment includes a range of sensors, searchlights and loudspeakers.
