initially designated HU2S-1G Seaguard, but was re-designated as the HH-52A Seaguard during 1962. The HH-52 was commonly dispatched aboard the USCG's larger cutters and icebreakers. The turbine-powered helicopter could carry greater payloads and fly faster than many preceding aircraft, such as the H-19 (S-55). Being designed to be amphibious, the installation of additional flotation gear was not required for over-water flights, and rescues could be conducted by simply landing on the water. Water pickups were considered to be quicker than hoisting survivors up to the helicopter. Across its services life, the HH-52 fleet played an active role during various emergencies and other circumstances. During the aftermath of Hurricane Betsey in 1965, the type rescued 1,200 people. The HH-52 was periodically used to provide logistical support in Antarctica. One HH-52 was present for the foundering of the oil tanker Burmah Agate on 1 November 1979, facilitating in the rescue of personnel from the affected vessels. The HH-52 fleet was active for a total of 26 years, during which it reportedly was responsible for saving in excess of 15,000 people from various forms of life-threatening situations. Having been eclipsed by newer rotorcraft, the final flight of a HH-52 took placed on 12 September 1989, after which the type was officially withdrawn from USCG service. It was primarily replaced by the Eurocopter HH-65 Dolphin, a conventional non-amphibious helicopter. Variants S-62 Prototype. First flew on 22 May 1958. S-62A Amphibious transport helicopter, powered by a General Electric CT58-110-1 turboshaft engine, with accommodation for up to 11 passengers. The S-62A was the first production version. S-62B One S-62 was fitted with the main rotor system of the Sikorsky S-58. S-62C Company designation of the HH-52A Seaguard. S-62J Produced under license in Japan by Mitsubishi. HU2S-1G Original designation of the HH-52A Seaguard. Redesignated HH-52A in 1962. HH-52A Seaguard Search and rescue helicopter for the United States Coast Guard; 99 built including 1 transferred to Iceland. Operators Military Japan Air Self Defense Force Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Philippine Air Force Civilian Icelandic Coast Guard Japan Coast Guard Gulf Helicopters Royal Thai Police United States Coast Guard SFO Helicopter Airlines Surviving aircraft Japan 53-4774 - S-62J on static display at Hamamatsu Air Park, Hamamatsu AB, Shizuoka. United States USCG 1355 – HH-52A on static display at the National Naval Aviation Museum at Naval Air Station Pensacola in Pensacola, Florida. USCG 1357 – At Dillingham Airfield in Mokulēia,