David Eyre 
Photo © Matt Hayes
15 May 2012 © David Eyre
WA Police held the public launch of their new $24 million helicopter, VH-WPX, which will use the call sign POLAIR62.
Police Minister Rob Johnson and Police Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan attended the unveiling ceremony.
The helicopter order was announced in May 2009 and it was delivered to Jandakot in September 2011.
It was hoped that the Dauphin 2 would be ready for CHOGM, but fitting out the helicopter with equipment and pilot training took longer than expected. VH-WPX will be flying on trials for CASA during the next two weeks and be in service by the end of May 2012.
More than 3500 hours were spent on designing and integrating various systems, including communications, sensors, a forward-looking infra-red (FLIR) camera, Tasking and Dispatch Information Systems (TADIS), special lighting, a rescue winch and other equipment.
The Dauphin 2 will be able to access security camera footage and can carry up to 10 passengers, three more than the current BK-117 helicopter. Maximum speed is 150 knots (287 kmh), and cruise speed is 145 knots (269 kmh).
