La. Coast Guard copters get radio upgrades

By Paul Purpura
Times-Picayune

NEW ORLEANS — Widely heralded for saving about 7,100 lives by air after Hurricane Katrina, the Coast Guard is equipping its fleet of Dolphin helicopters with electronics the agency says will enable its crews to more effectively find people in distress.

The newly designated MH-65C is outfitted with radios that will allow air crews to talk directly with local, state and military agencies, and with infrared spotlights to enhance what the crews see in darkness with their night-vision goggles.