Thursday 12 December, 2024

Boeing delivers first MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter to US Air Force

Boeing has delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production aircraft to the US Air Force (USAF). This aircraft is part of a Low Rate Initial Production order placed in 2023 for 13 helicopters and will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

“This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 executive director and program manager. “Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come.”

In 2024, the USAF awarded an additional seven MH-139As to Boeing. Boeing has already delivered six Research, Development, Test and Evaluation aircraft, and currently has 26 aircraft on contract.

Boeing’s MH-139A Grey Wolf is a twin-engine multi-mission helicopter based on the proven commercial AW139 helicopter. It is designed to protect land-based nuclear ballistic missile sites and transport US government officials and security forces. Produced in the United States, the MH-139A offers an off-the-shelf, readily available solution that combines performance, operational flexibility, and safety.

The MH-139A has a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 lb. increase in maximum gross weight compared to its predecessor. This allows the aircraft to handle multiple mission sets. Along with lower operating costs, increased reliability, and improved maintainability, the MH-139A offers improved capability and greater flexibility for the USAF.

The MH-139A team consists of Boeing as the prime contractor and Leonardo as an original equipment manufacturer. Leonardo produces the baseline helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft.

News Desk
News Desk
Defence Today covers global defence and security news. Send press releases to: press@defencetoday.com

related articles

latest

read more