The reliability and commercial success of the Alouette II prompte dits manufacturer Sud Aviation to design an advanced variant with a more powerful turbojet and improved airtrame aerodynamics. It was to be the most popular light helicopter with the military, civil operators, rescue services and the police. With its extensive glazing, power and passenger comfort, it was ideal surveillance and rescue platform. In addition to the pilot, it could carry six passengers or two stretchers one above the other and two seated passengers.