Boeing reported on 20 November 2023 that it continues to transition towards low-rate initial production (LRIP) of the MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter after completing the programme’s research, development, test & evaluation (RDT&E) phase.
The sixth and final test aircraft was delivered to the US Air Force (USAF) in October, Boeing noted.
“Delivering all of the RDT&E aircraft to the air force enables them to continue critical operational testing and allows Boeing to focus on building the first production aircraft,” Azeem Khan, Boeing’s MH-139 programme director, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “The Grey Wolf will provide crucial national security capability improvements to the air force. This is an important step in getting the aircraft into service.”
Boeing expects to provide the first LRIP Grey Wolf to the USAF in 2024. To date, the air force has awarded Boeing a contract to build the first 13 MH-139As, with the first aircraft already in final assembly. Ultimately, Boeing will provide up to 80 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters to the USAF, where the type will replace the UH-1N Huey helicopter and will be tasked with protecting intercontinental ballistic missile sites across the United States and transporting VIP and security personnel.
A dual-piloted, twin-engine helicopter, the MH-139A is a military variant of the AW139 produced by Leonardo, which is Boeing’s partner on the programme. The aircraft is designed to accomplish three hours of unrefuelled flight, or a 225 nautical mile range, and have a cruise speed of 135 knots. It is intended to carry nine combat-equipped troops and security response equipment.
“With the final test aircraft delivered, we’re headed into an exciting production phase. With the MH-139, the United States Air Force is getting a faster and more capable aircraft to bring them into a new era of service for this mission,” said Robert Beyer, MH-139 senior programme manager for Leonardo Helicopters US. “Leonardo is incredibly proud of this aircraft, and we look forward to the continued partnership with Boeing and the USAF as we deliver additional Grey Wolf helicopters.”
