The U.S. Air Force (USAF) awarded Boeing a substantial agreement worth $178 million to manufacture an additional seven MH-139A ‘Grey Wolf’ helicopters, including support and training services, thereby raising the total number of aircraft on order to 26. The USAF aims to procure up to 84 MH-139A Grey Wolves from Boeing to refresh its aging fleet of Vietnam-era UH-1N Huey helicopters.
“Establishing the Grey Wolf fleet and facilitating the transition towards full-scale production is a crucial step in supporting the Air Force’s modernization goals,” remarked Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director. “Equipping the Air Force with this vital capability is essential for their mission of protecting significant national assets.”
The agreement comes shortly after the inaugural production helicopter completed its first flight in December 2023. With this aircraft currently undergoing additional testing and others at various production stages, Boeing is poised to deliver the first LRIP aircraft to the Air Force this summer.
The MH-139 Grey Wolf: A Multifaceted Mission Leader
The MH-139 is a multifaceted mission helicopter designed for reconnaissance, search and rescue, as well as troop and cargo transport. Built on Leonardo Helicopters’ esteemed AW139 and outfitted with Boeing-customized military equipment, the MH-139 incorporates advanced, state-of-the-art technology that enables operators to execute missions swiftly, stealthily, efficiently, and securely.
The primary mission for the USAF’s new Grey Wolf helicopter fleet will be to monitor and secure intercontinental nuclear missile facilities. Given their remote locations and the specialized nature of the mission, the MH-139A’s range and speed were decisive factors in securing the contract. Additional responsibilities currently assigned to the UH-1Ns will also transition to the Grey Wolves, such as conducting search and rescue operations at isolated bases and transporting high-ranking government officials to safety in emergency situations.
