Boeing has landed another contract to supply four additional MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters for the US Air Force as part of the service’s modernization efforts.
It follows a $173-million contract for eight MH-139As in September, in addition to a previous order of 26 choppers under a low-rate production agreement. The latest award brings the total number of units ordered to 38, with 21 already delivered.
The Grey Wolf program is part of the service’s effort to replace its aging UH-1N Huey fleet — operational since the 1970s — with each MH-139A having 50 percent more speed and range, as well as an additional 5,000 pounds (2,300 kilograms) payload capacity than its predecessor.
“The quick succession of contracts demonstrates that the US Air Force is all in on bringing the MH-139A capability to the warfighter as quickly as possible,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director.
“Our team is dedicated to delivering and maintaining these aircraft, driven by a commitment to excellence, where safety and quality are our top priorities.”
Multi-Mission Chopper
The multi-mission Grey Wolf helicopter is based on the Leonardo AW139 and adapted by Boeing for military use in patrol, search and rescue, and troop and cargo transport.
It will be deployed for nuclear security support, emergency response, airlift, and convoy escort missions in the US and overseas, with the delivered choppers already having been integrated into training exercises, including nuclear transport missions.
Measuring 54.8 feet (16.7 meters) long and standing 16.4 feet (5 meters) high, the MH-139 features a 45.3-foot (13.8-meter) rotor system and a maximum takeoff weight of 15,432 pounds (7,000 kilograms).
It cruises at up to 146 knots (270 kilometers/168 miles per hour), can reach a top speed of 167 knots (309 kilometers/192 miles per hour), and has a maximum range of 410 nautical miles (472 miles/759 kilometers), with a service ceiling of 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).
