The MH 60T jayhawk
The MH-68-A
The United States Coast Guard's aviation assets are a vital component of the service's multifaceted mission to protect the country's coastlines and waterways.
Among its impressive fleet of aircraft is the MH-68A Stingray, a versatile helicopter that has proven itself to be an invaluable asset in a wide range of operations.
The MH-68A Stingray is a modified version of the AgustaWestland AW139, a twin-engine helicopter designed for a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and medical evacuation.
The Stingray's airframe is built to withstand the rigors of maritime operations, with a robust design and advanced avionics suite. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C engines, the MH-68A is capable of reaching speeds of up to 167 knots (192 mph) and has a range of approximately 400 nautical miles.
One of the key features of the MH-68A is its advanced sensor suite, which includes a FLIR (Forward-Looking Infrared) camera, a searchlight, and a suite of communication systems.
These sensors enable the aircrew to detect and track targets in a variety of environments, from open ocean to urban waterways. The Stingray's avionics suite also includes advanced navigation and communication systems, allowing the aircrew to coordinate with other aircraft and shore-based units.
The MH-68A Stingray was first introduced into service with the US Coast Guard in 2006, as part of the service's Aviation Tactical Support (AT'S) program.
The primary mission of the Stingray was to provide armed air support for Coast Guard law enforcement operations, including counter-narcotics and migrant interdiction missions.
Since its introduction, the MH-68A has proven itself to be a highly versatile aircraft, capable of supporting a wide range of operations.
One notable example of the Stingray's capabilities was its deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where it was used to support counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia.
The Stingray's advanced sensors and armament made it an ideal platform for detecting and intercepting pirate vessels, and its presence helped to deter pirate activity in the region.
In addition to its law enforcement role, the MH-68A Stingray has also been used extensively in search and rescue operations. The aircraft's advanced sensors and winch system make it an ideal platform for hoisting people from the water or from vessels in distress.
The Stingray's aircrew has undergone extensive training in hoist operations, and the aircraft has been used in a variety of search and rescue scenarios, from rescuing sailors from stricken vessels to medevacing injured personnel from remote locations.
The MH-68A Stingray has also played a significant role in the Coast Guard's counter-narcotics efforts. The aircraft's advanced sensors and armament make it an effective platform for detecting and intercepting drug-smuggling vessels.
The Stingray's aircrew works closely with Coast Guard law enforcement teams to track and intercept suspect vessels, and the aircraft's sensors and cameras provide critical support for these operations.
To ensure the continued effectiveness of the MH-68A Stingray, the Coast Guard has invested heavily in training and maintenance programs. The aircrew undergoes regular training exercises to hone their skills in a variety of scenarios, from search and rescue to law enforcement.
The aircraft itself is also subject to rigorous maintenance schedules, with regular inspections and repairs carried out to ensure its continued airworthiness.
The MH-68A Stingray is a versatile and highly capable helicopter that has proven itself to be an invaluable asset to the US Coast Guard. With its advanced sensors, armament, and avionics suite, the Stingray is capable of supporting a wide range of operations, from law enforcement to search and rescue.
As the Coast Guard continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, the MH-68A Stingray will remain a critical component of its aviation assets, providing support for operations both at home and abroad.
The Stingray's impact on the Coast Guard's operations cannot be overstated. Its ability to detect and intercept suspect vessels, rescue people in distress, and provide armed air support for law enforcement operations has made it an essential tool in the service's mission to protect the country's coastlines and waterways.
As the Stingray continues to fly, it will remain a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of the men and women who design, build, and operate these incredible aircraft.
In the years to come, the MH-68A Stingray will continue to play a vital role in the Coast Guard's operations, supporting a wide range of missions and keeping the country's coastlines and waterways safe.
With its advanced capabilities and versatile design, the Stingray is an aircraft that will be hard to replace, and its legacy will live on as a testament to the Coast Guard's commitment to protecting the nation.
The MH-68A Stingray is a remarkable aircraft that has earned its place in the Coast Guard's aviation assets. Its versatility, capabilities, and dedication to mission make it an asset that will continue to serve the nation for years to come.
Nautical Mile Magazine
