“The MH-139A offers increased speed, range and payload capacity critical to supporting U.S. national security missions,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 programme director. “We look forward to delivering these advanced aircraft to bases across the country.”

Following a previous $178 million award for seven aircraft in April, this latest order includes the first set of helicopters slated for deployment to Minot Air Force Base (AFB) in North Dakota as part of the Lot 3 award. The Air Force has recently completed Initial Operational Test & Evaluation flights, as the programme progresses toward Initial Operational Capability (IOC).

To date, Boeing has delivered 18 aircraft, including 12 low-rate initial production assets. Deliveries for the first operational unit at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, were completed earlier this year, and Boeing anticipates delivering four more aircraft to the Air Force before year-end.

Based on the proven Leonardo Helicopters AW139, the MH-139A Grey Wolf incorporates custom military equipment fitted by Boeing, enabling it to perform a wide range of missions including patrol, search and rescue, troop transport, and cargo operations.

“The MH-139A Grey Wolf represents the best of partnership and proven capability,” said Robert Beyer, MH-139 senior programme manager at Leonardo Helicopters. “By building on the trusted AW139 platform, we’ve been able to deliver a versatile aircraft to the warfighter that is already demonstrating its value to the U.S. Air Force. With each new lot, we are proud to continue strengthening national security missions while supporting American manufacturing and jobs.”

The MH-139A programme continues to build momentum as Boeing and Leonardo advance production and operational deployment across key Air Force bases nationwide.