Boeing Secures Deal for Eight More MH-139A Helicopters: A Skyward Expansion!
In an agreement exceeding $173 million, the U.S. Air Force has given Boeing [NYSE: BA] a contract to manufacture eight additional MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters along with training and support services.
“The MH-139A provides enhanced speed, range, and payload capacity essential for supporting U.S. national security operations,” mentioned Azeem Khan, director of the MH-139 program. “We eagerly anticipate the deployment of these advanced aircraft to bases nationwide.”
Following a $178 million contract for seven aircraft awarded last April, this new order increases the total number under contract to 34, featuring the initial set of aircraft expected for deployment to Minot Air Force Base (AFB), North Dakota.
The Air Force has recently carried out Initial Operational Test & Evaluation flights as the MH-139A program progresses towards achieving Initial Operational Capability.
So far, Boeing has delivered 18 aircraft, which includes 12 low-rate initial production units. Boeing has successfully completed deliveries for the first operational unit at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, this year and plans to provide four more aircraft to the Air Force within the year.
Based on the established Leonardo Helicopters AW139 and equipped with specialized military gear by Boeing, the MH-139A is a multi-role helicopter configured for patrol, search and rescue, and transport of troops and cargo.
“The MH-139A Grey Wolf epitomizes collaboration and established capability,” stated Robert Beyer, senior program manager for MH-139 at Leonardo Helicopters. “By utilizing the reliable AW139 platform, we’ve succeeded in delivering a flexible aircraft to the warfighter that is already proving its worth to the U.S. Air Force. With each new batch, we take pride in further enhancing national security operations while fostering American manufacturing and employment.”
