Aerospace company Boeing has delivered four MH-139A Grey Wolf test aircraft to the Air Force as it prepares to replace its aging UH-1N helicopter fleet.
“The Grey Wolf is a modern, versatile aircraft offering greater range, speed and endurance than the UH-1N Huey it replaces,” Boeing Vertical Lift Vice President and General Manager Mark Cherry said. “I am proud of our team who, along with our partner Leonardo, helped us to achieve this milestone — a tremendous first step in a long line of Grey Wolf deliveries.”
The Grey Wolf is a multi-mission aircraft designed to protect intercontinental ballistic missiles and transport government officials and security forces, per officials, noting Boeing was awarded a $2.4 billion contract in September 2018 for 80 helicopters, training systems and associated support equipment.
The pact calls for Leonardo Helicopters U.S. to produce the helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, with Boeing possessing responsibility for military equipment procurement, ad installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft.
“We are thrilled that the first four MH-139As have been accepted by the U.S. Air Force,” Leonardo Helicopters U.S. CEO Clyde Woltman said. “This aircraft is well-positioned to become an important asset in the defense and security of the United States.”