Boeing will initiate manufacturing on the initial 13 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, following the allocation of a $285 million U.S. Air Force agreement for aircraft, maintenance, and assistance services.
“Transitioning the initiative from assessment and evaluation to production is a significant milestone toward deploying the MH-139 in operational service and furnishing the U.S. Air Force with enhanced missile defense for many years to come,” stated Azeem Khan, Boeing’s MH-139 program director. “We are committed to commencing deliveries in the upcoming year.”
The MH-139A’s advanced features empower it to complete missions more swiftly, discreetly, and effectively. With a 50 percent rise in speed and range, alongside an increase of 5,000 pounds in maximum gross weight, the aircraft can fulfill the U.S. Air Force’s task of safeguarding intercontinental ballistic missiles nationwide.
The MH-139A team is comprised of Boeing as the primary contractor and Leonardo as an original equipment supplier. Leonardo manufactures the helicopter at its facility in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing manages military equipment acquisition and installation, alongside post-delivery assistance for the aircraft. By utilizing a tested AW-139 platform and incorporating additional military enhancements into the MH-139A, the Boeing-Leonardo alliance delivers the U.S. Air Force with the most competent solution for the mission.
“My colleagues at Leonardo, along with Boeing, are excited to continue our collaboration and ensure the triumph of the MH-139A initiative,” remarked Clyde Woltman, CEO of Leonardo Helicopters U.S.
