The US Air Force has awarded Boeing a $173 million contract for eight more MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, along with training and sustainment packages.
This latest procurement brings the total Grey Wolf count to 34 aircraft, with 18 already delivered, including 12 from previous low-rate production lots.
The new units are slated for deployment at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, marking the first delivery to the site.
Built on the Leonardo AW139 platform, the MH-139A is a twin-engine utility helicopter adapted by Boeing for military missions such as search and rescue, patrol, logistics transport, and missile field protection.
Assembly is handled at Boeing’s Philadelphia facility, while Leonardo manufactures the airframes in Italy. The partnership enables Boeing to incorporate military-grade systems, including modern avionics, self-defense suites, and secure communications tailored for Air Force operations.
Progress in the US Air Force’s Helicopter Fleet Renewal
The Grey Wolf initiative represents a key step in phasing out the UH-1N Huey, which has served since the 1970s.
Following initial operational testing and evaluation, the MH-139A has proven capable in convoy escort, base protection, and nuclear mission support.
It is now being integrated into Air Force training programs. Earlier this year, the 908th Operations Support Squadron deployed the helicopter during a readiness drill at Maxwell Air Force Base, its first major Air Force training participation.
The Grey Wolf has also undergone operational trials with the 582nd Helicopter Group, which manages nuclear site defense across multiple states.
