The U.S. Air Force (USAF) granted Boeing a $178 million agreement to produce seven additional MH-139A ‘Grey Wolf’ helicopters, along with support and training services, elevating the total number of aircraft on order to 26. The USAF intends to acquire up to 84 MH-139A Grey Wolves from Boeing to modernize its outdated fleet of Vietnam-era UH-1N Huey helicopters.
“Establishing the Grey Wolf fleet and facilitating the journey towards full-scale production is a vital step in assisting the Air Force’s modernization objectives,” stated Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director. “Providing the Air Force with this essential capability is crucial to their mission of safeguarding significant national assets.”
The contract follows closely after the inaugural production helicopter conducted its first flight in December 2023. With that aircraft currently undergoing further testing and others at various production stages, Boeing is on schedule to deliver the first LRIP aircraft to the Air Force this summer.
The MH-139 Grey Wolf: A Versatile Mission Champion
The MH-139 is a versatile mission helicopter engineered for surveillance, search and rescue, and troop and cargo transport. Built on Leonardo Helicopters’ renowned AW139 and equipped with Boeing-customized military apparatus, the MH-139 integrates cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technology that allows operators to execute missions swiftly, discreetly, effectively, and securely.
The principal mission of the USAF’s new Grey Wolf helicopter fleet will be to monitor and secure intercontinental nuclear missile installations. Due to their remote placements and the specific nature of the mission, the MH-139A’s range and speed were pivotal factors in securing the contract. Additional tasks currently assigned to the UH-1Ns will also be undertaken by the Grey Wolves, such as search and rescue operations at isolated bases and transporting key government officials to safety during emergencies.
