Boeing will begin production on the first 13 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, following the award of a $285 million US Air Force contract for aircraft, sustainment and support services.

The MH-139A’s enhanced capabilities allow it to accomplish missions more quickly, quietly and efficiently. With a 50 percent increase in speed and range, and an increase of 5,000 pounds max gross weight, the aircraft can execute the US Air Force’s mission of protecting intercontinental ballistic missiles across the country.

The MH-139A team consists of Boeing, as the prime contractor, and Leonardo as an original equipment manufacturer. The second industry produces the helicopter at its plant in north-east Philadelphia, while the first one is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft. By offering a proven AW-139 platform and integrating additional military capabilities into the MH-139A, the Boeing-Leonardo team provides the US Air Force with the most capable product for the mission.