Boeing MH-139 Grey Wolf

The Boeing MH-139A Grey Wolf is a twin-engine helicopter operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) for security and support missions. Developed by Boeing, the Grey Wolf is a variant of the Leonardo AW139, an Italian-built multi-role helicopter.

Development
On 24 September 2018, the USAF awarded Boeing the $2.4 billion UH-1N replacement contract, following the cancellation of the previous Common Vertical Lift Support Program (CVLSP). It is meant to upgrade security patrols for nuclear missile fields and transport of senior officials. The Grey Wolf was the first major acquisition for the Air Force Global Strike Command in its 10-year history.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a US$285-million contract to build the first 13 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters to replace the venerable Bell UH-1N Huey multi-role helicopter fleet that guards America's land-based nuclear ballistic missiles.

The MH-139A Grey Wolf will be used for security patrols, search and rescue missions, and personnel and cargo transport. The Air Force's first intention was to purchase 84 helicopters for security and transportation across extensive ICBM fields, senior leader and executive airlift in the Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), also known as the National Capital Region. It will also see use in aircrew survival training. The precise quantity of the MH-139 fleet remains unknown. Initially, the requirement was for up to 84 helicopters, which was then reduced to 80, then 74. The most recent Fiscal Year 2025 budget suggests a further reduction, to a fleet of just 36 MH-139s. The Grey Wolf program has faced numerous setbacks and delays, including difficulty with attaining Federal Aviation Administration type certification. Typically, FAA certification is not required for US military aircraft, but it is in the case of the MH-139 because the helicopters will be required to operate extensively within US domestic airspace.

Design
The MH-139A Grey Wolf features military and commercial system integration capabilities that play a crucial role in the Grey Wolf program. It features an integrated training system based on existing AW139 operational flight trainers. It is includes sustainment tools ensure seamless USG interfaces. A global Commercial/DoD support system ensures efficient parts procurement. The unique design enables maintainers to conduct all aircraft maintenance at the operational level. The helicopter is propelled by two FADEC-controlled Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 turboshaft engines housed in separate engine turbine burst containment boxes, each with independent inputs to the main gearbox. The engines' infrared signature has been decreased by lowering airflow and using a directed exhaust, reducing plume impingement on the tail fuselage.

Operational history


The first field-ready MH-139 Grey Wolf arrived at Montana’s Malmstrom Air Force Base. The 341st Missile Wing captured footage of Malmstrom's first Grey Wolf arriving at the base on 5 March 2024. The 908th Airlift Wing introduced the MH-139A Grey Wolf Helicopter at Maxwell Air Force Base on 31 May 2024.

Operators

 * United States Air Force
 * 413th Flight Test Squadron
 * 908th Airlift Wing
 * 341st Missile Wing
 * 341st Missile Wing