Boeing delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf multi-mission helicopter to the US Air Force on August 5, 2024.
The aircraft, part of a Low Rate Initial Production order placed in 2023 for 13 helicopters, will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.
Boeing’s $285 million contract with the US Air Force includes the production and delivery of aircraft, sustainment and support services. The plane manufacturer began production of the MH-139A Grey Wolf in March 2023.
In 2024, the US Air Force extended the contract to include an additional seven MH-139As. With six aircraft already delivered for research, development, test and evaluation, Boeing currently has 26 aircraft on contract.
With a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 pound increase in max gross weight compared to its predecessor, the MH-139A can execute multiple mission sets.
Boeing said that combined with lower operating costs, increased reliability and improved maintainability, the aircraft provides improved capability and greater flexibility for the US Air Force.
The MH-139A team consists of Boeing as the prime contractor and Italian aerospace, defense and security company 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.
“This aircraft will directly support the ongoing US Air Force modernization efforts,” Azeem Khan, MH-139 Executive Director and Program Manager said in a statement.
“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 US nuclear triad for decades to come,” Khan added.
