Boeing began production of the first 13 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters following the award of a $285 million contract from the U.S. Air Force for aircraft, maintenance and support services.
“Advancing the program from testing and evaluation to production is a major step toward entering the MH-139 into service and providing the U.S. Air Force with additional missile security for decades,” said Azeem Khan, Boeing’s MH-139 program director. “We are working diligently to begin deliveries next year.”
The Grey Wolf is a multi-mission aircraft, based on Leonardo’s proven AW139 commercial helicopter, designed to protect intercontinental ballistic missile bases and transport U.S. government officials and security forces.
The MH-139A’s enhanced capabilities allow it to perform missions faster, quieter and more efficiently. With a 50 percent increase in speed and range, and a 5,000-pound increase in maximum gross weight (over the older, Vietnam-era UH-1N Huey), this modern helicopter can execute the U.S. Air Force’s mission of protecting intercontinental ballistic missiles all over North American territory.
The MH-139A team consists of Boeing, as prime contractor, and Leonardo as the original model manufacturer. Leonardo produces the helicopter at its Northeast Philadelphia plant, while Boeing is responsible for procurement and installation of military equipment and post-delivery support of the aircraft. By offering a proven AW-139 platform and integrating additional military capabilities into the MH-139A, the Boeing-Leonardo team provides the USAF with the most capable product for the nuclear guardian mission.
“My teammates at Leonardo, together with Boeing, are eager to continue our partnership and ensure the success of the MH-139A program,” said Clyde Woltman, CEO of Leonardo Helicopters U.S.
The first four aircraft, produced by Leonardo and modified by Boeing, have already been delivered in August 2020 to the USAF for military serviceability testing. The UH-1N replacement contract, valued at about USD 2.4 billion, covers the procurement of 80 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters.
