The Panther helicopter of the Cassard frigate transfering a light load to the Meuse Maneuvering of a Panther helicopter on the Cassard frigate The Eurocopter Panther is the military version of the Eurocopter Dauphin medium-weight multipurpose twin-engine helicopter and is manufactured by Eurocopter (originally by Aérospatiale).
The Panther is a militarized version of the AS 365 N and has the type number AS 565.
Versions
The Panther is available in the following versions:
- AS 565 UA/UB: utility versions. (Currently in production.) These versions are powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2C turbine engines, whch are equipped with an full authority digital electronic control (FADEC). The main missions of this version are: transport of 8 to 10 fully-equipped troops, casualty evacuation and logistic support.
- AS 565 AA/AB: attack versions. (Not currently in production.)
- AS 565 MA/MB: naval search & rescue versions. (Currently in production.) This is the navalized version of the Panther and is also powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2C turbine engines equipped with FADEC. The main missions of this version are: anti-surface vessel warfare (ASuW), anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and search and rescue (SAR). This version is fitted with the quick-securing "Harpoon" device that allows it to land and take off on board ships whatever the relative wind direction.
- AS 565 SA/SB: ASW (Anti Submarine Warfare) versions. (Not currently in production.)
Armament
The armament of the various versions can include:
- Giat M621 20 mm cannon pods.
- Matra Mistral air-to-air missiles.
- HOT anti-tank missiles.
- 68 mm and 70 mm unguided rockets.
- AS.15TT anti-surface missiles.
- Anti-submarine warfare torpedoes.
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