The United States Air Force (USAF) has received the first four MH-139A Grey Wolf test helicopters from Leonardo and Boeing as the service looks to replace its ageing fleet of UH-1N helicopters. The Grey Wolf, based on Leonardo's dual-purpose AW139 helicopter, is a multi-mission helicopter designed to protect intercontinental ballistic missiles and transport US government officials and security forces.
In September 2018, Boeing was awarded
a $2.4 billion contract for 80 helicopters, training systems, and associated
support equipment.
Leonardo manufactures the helicopter at its FAA-certified
Part 21 facility in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is in charge of
military equipment procurement and installation and aircraft post-delivery
support.
