AS350 B3e Helicopter

The AS350 B3e is a high-performance variant of the Ecureuil range of helicopters manufactured by Eurocopter. The B3e is a new member of the AS350 family of helicopters. The helicopter entered service in September 2011.

The helicopter is suitable for a range of law enforcement missions including surveillance, command and control, search-and-rescue (SAR), special weapons and tactics (SWAT) team transportation and border patrol.

The AS350 helicopters are in service with the police forces in 30 regions across the world. The helicopter is capable of conducting missions in the most extreme climates and geographical conditions.

The US Customs and Border Protection placed an order for six AS350 helicopters in February 2010. The order is a part of the light enforcement helicopter (LEH) contract awarded by the US Department of Homeland Security in July 2008. The LEH contract calls for the delivery of 50 AS350 helicopters.

AS350 B3e design

The composite airframe, rotors and main rotor head of the AS350 B3e offers superior protection against corrosion. The modular design allows the integration of a range of certified optional law enforcement equipment.

The helicopter has an overall length of 12.94m, wing span of 10.89m and a height of 3.34m. The maximum take-off weight in external load configuration is 2,800kg. The helicopter can carry a maximum swing load of 1,400kg.

Cockpit and avionics of the AS350 B3e

The cockpit accommodates two crew members on energy-absorbing seats. It is equipped with a dual LCD screen vehicle and engine multifunction display (VEMD). It enables the crew to monitor the main parameters of the vehicle and the engine at a glance. The VEMD reduces the workload of the pilot, while enhancing safety.

The helicopter allows day and night VFR flights and can be customised with night vision goggles (NVG)-compatible instrumentation. The law enforcement variants are fitted with an infrared thermal imaging system, moving map with zoom and GPS, tracker, wire-strike protection system, gyro-stabilised binoculars, simultaneous four-channel police radio, a windshield wiper for pilot and co-pilot, second battery kit, air-conditioning system, sand prevention filter, tail rotor arch, electrical external mirror, emergency floatation system, cargo hook and hoist.

AS350 B3e cabin

The spacious cabin of the AS350 B3e provides a low vibration and high level of comfort for the passengers. It can be easily accessed through two large sliding doors. It features forward-facing seats and large baggage compartments.

The AS350 B3e can be configured and easily-customised by integrating a variety of certified optional equipment according to the customer requirements. Its unobstructed flat floor cabin allows the installation of law enforcement instrument panels, infrared cameras and tactical consoles.

Engine details of the AS350 B3

The AS350 B3e is powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine with a take-off power of 847shp. The engine is equipped with a dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC). It is backed-up with one autonomous control system to improve safety and reduce the workload of the crew.

The FADEC also ensures engine monitoring by delivering the proper fuel, air and ignition ratios for maximum performance with minimum fuel costs. The engine data recorder (EDR) handles cycle countings and damage tracking for more predictable maintenance.

AS350 B3 performance

The AS350 B3e outperforms all other six- and seven-seat helicopters in its class. It can fly at very high altitudes in high temperatures while carrying heavy loads. The helicopter has a high lifting capacity, endurance and manoeuvrability. It can be deployed in most rigorous hot and high operations and sling work. The operational temperature ranges between – 40°C and +50°C.

The helicopter can fly at a maximum altitude of 7,010m. It can climb at a rate of 10m/sec. The maximum speed of the helicopter is 287km/h. The maximum range with standard tank is 638km. The helicopter has a maximum endurance of four hours and 23 minutes.

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