Boeing Stars in New Chapter: Eight Additional MH-139A Helicopters Added to Their Fleet!
In a deal surpassing $173 million, the U.S. Air Force has awarded Boeing [NYSE: BA] a contract for the production of eight more MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, along with comprehensive training and support services.
“The MH-139A delivers enhanced velocity, range, and payload capability vital for bolstering U.S. national defense operations,” remarked Azeem Khan, the director of the MH-139 initiative. “We are looking forward to the deployment of these cutting-edge aircraft to installations across the nation.”
After a previous $178 million contract for seven helicopters issued last April, this latest order brings the overall total under contract to 34, with the initial group of helicopters slated for deployment to Minot Air Force Base (AFB), North Dakota.
The Air Force has recently conducted Initial Operational Test & Evaluation flights as the MH-139A program moves closer to attaining Initial Operational Capability.
To date, Boeing has supplied 18 helicopters, which include 12 low-rate initial production units. This year, Boeing successfully completed the deliveries for the first operational unit at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, and intends to deliver four additional helicopters to the Air Force within the year.
Based on the established Leonardo Helicopters AW139 and outfitted with specialized military equipment by Boeing, the MH-139A is a versatile helicopter tailored for patrol, search and rescue, and the transportation of troops and cargo.
“The MH-139A Grey Wolf embodies teamwork and proven capabilities,” asserted Robert Beyer, senior program manager for MH-139 at Leonardo Helicopters. “By leveraging the trusted AW139 platform, we’ve achieved the delivery of a adaptable aircraft to the warfighter that is already demonstrating its value to the U.S. Air Force. With each new batch, we take pride in further advancing national defense operations while promoting American manufacturing and workforce.”
