David Eyre 
Photo © Brenden Scott
27 August 2011 (UPDATED 28 SEPTEMBER 2011):
The WA Police have taken delivery of their new helicopter VH-WPX, a Eurocopter AS365N3+ Dauphin 2 (cn 6936). The helicopter was registered on 17 August 2011. It was photographed by AAWA member Brenden Scott at Bankstown, NSW on 16 September 2011, undergoing engine runs in preparation for delivery. It was later delivered to Jandakot, arriving there on 23 September 2011.
The AS365 N3+ version of the Dauphin is designed for “hot and high” operations, with two 717 kW (961 shp) Turbomeca Arriel 2C turboshafts equipped with a single channel DECU (Digital Engine Control Unit) with manual reversion, connected to an uprated main rotor transmission for improved single engine performance. Maximum speed is 150 knots (287 kmh), cruise speed is 145 knots (269 kmh). The aircraft can climb at a mximum of 1,321 feet per minute. Range with optional auxiliary tanks is 498 nm (923 km).
The AS365 N3+ also includes a redesigned ten-blade all-composite Fenestron tail rotor, which has asymetric blade distribution to reduce noise, reduced maintenance requirements and better damage tolerance. The main rotor is also manufactured from composites, making them corrosion-proof.
The AS365 N3’s gross weight is 4,300 kg (9,480 lb), and it can carry an external load of up to 1,600 kg (3,527 lb). The cabin can take up to 12 passengers and 2 pilots.
The aircraft is fitted with Traffic alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), Electronic Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), Radar and Digital Moving Map displayed on 10.4″ screen Mission display 10.4 ” Touch screen
Production deliveries began in December 1998 and this version is currently still in production.
Police Specialist Units Superintendent Geoff Maloney signed the Eurocopter AS365 N3 purchase contract in May 2010. Pilots and crew began training on the type last year.
A WA Police press release stated:
Police Specialist Units Superintendent Geoff Maloney: “This is a very impressive aircraft and it will significantly increase our airborne law enforcement capacity. It will improve our assistance to all facets of frontline policing, from major and organised crime investigations to tracking street-level crime and providing a platform for improved search and rescue and emergency management.”
“The AS365 N3+ is operated by several police jurisdictions throughout the world and in Victoria as a reliable platform for policing tasks and special operations. The Police negotiated a reduced delivery timeframe, with delivery scheduled for September 2011.
The existing Police helicopter [Kawasaki BK117 VH-WAH] will remain in service after the Dauphin 2 is delivered. This will ensure “an increased Police presence in Western Australian skies.”
