Dauphin's - Where are they now?

[Frank]

Hi Guys,

Can anyone confirm if the 4 former Air Corps Dauphin's made it to Chile or are they still with Rotor Leasing?

I've only found one blog entry and a Wiki entry mentioning the Dauphin's being in service with Chile but there's nothing on the Chilean Navy website (that I can find anyway). All photo's I've found of Chilean Navy Dauphin's are of the US version, the HH-65 (short nose version).


Thanks in advance,

Frank.

[Fouga]

Safely in Chile Frank!

http://chiledefense.blogspot.com/2008/11/navy-doubles-its-dauphin-helicopter.html

Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Navy Doubles Its Dauphin Helicopter Fleet

Chile's navy acquired four SA-365F Dauphin II helicopters that had been retired from the Irish Air Corps. The deal adds to four other Dauphins that were acquired second-hand in 2005-06 in Brazil. The latest helicopters were purchased from a U.S.-based company for about $23 million, according to The Irish Times. The newspaper said the Air Corps sold the aircraft to the company, which made upgrades and in turn sold them to Chile. The Dauphins are used for patrol and search & rescue operations. They can also operate on the new offshore patrol vessels, and several more may be acquired to watch over Chile's extensive coastline. The Dauphins are replacing about a half-dozen outdated BO 105 helicopters.
Posted by J.C. Arancibia at 8:56 PM

[Frank]

Thanks Fouga,

I found that article before I posted but it doesn't confirm that the Dauphin's have actually been delivered. I'm looking to find out if they have been delivered yet.


Regards,

Frank.

[Joemax]

Hi Frank,

See link for details
http://www.modocharlie.com/2009/03/nuevo-dauphin-naval/

[Frank]

Hi Joe,

You're a star, that's exactly what I've been looking for, thanks very much.


Regards,

Frank.