Boeing announced on 5 August 2024 that it has delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production-standard helicopter to the US Air Force (USAF). The aircraft, part of a low-rate initial production order signed in 2023 for 13 helicopters, will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.
“This aircraft will directly support ongoing US Air Force modernisation efforts,” Azeem Khan, Boeing’s MH-139 executive director and programme manager, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the US nuclear triad for decades to come.”
In April 2024 the USAF awarded Boeing a contract for an additional seven MH-139As. With six research, development, test and evaluation aircraft already delivered, Boeing now has 26 MH-139As on contract.
“With a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 lb [kg] increase in maximum gross weight compared its predecessor, the MH-139A can execute multiple mission sets,” Boeing stated. “Combined with lower operating costs, increased reliability and improved maintainability, the aircraft provides improved capability and greater flexibility for the US Air Force.
The team building the MH-139A comprises Boeing as the prime contractor and Leonardo as the original equipment manufacturer of the twin-engine AW139 helicopter, on which the MH-139A is based. Leonardo produces the baseline helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation as well as post-delivery support of the aircraft.
The MH-139A Grey Wolf will be used for security patrols – most notably to guard the US military’s intercontinental ballistic missile bases – as well as for search-and-rescue missions and personnel and cargo transport duties.
