U.S.A.F.’s MH-139A Helicopter Enters Developmental Testing

The U.S. Air Force accepted delivery of four MH-139A Grey Wolf test aircraft, weeks after Boeing completed the final Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certification required for the aircraft to achieve its Military Flight Release.

These accomplishments allow the Air Force to conduct testing of critical military capabilities of the MH-139A as the program progresses toward Milestone C.

Prior to ownership, the aircraft went through rigorous acceptance tests conducted by Air Force Global Strike Command Detachment 7 and 413th Flight Test Squadron pilots.

The MH-139A Grey Wolf will replace the Air Force fleet of UH-1N aircraft, offering a significant capability increase in speed, range, endurance, payload, and survivability.

The Air Force will acquire 80 MH-139A helicopters, training devices, and associated support equipment. The MH-139A will provide vertical airlift and support to four Air Force major commands and other operating agencies including AFGSC, Air Education and Training Command, Air Force Materiel Command, Air Force Reserve Command, and the Air Force District of Washington.

AFGSC is the lead command and operational capability requirements sponsor.