Boeing has received a $173 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to produce eight more MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, along with training and sustainment support services. This award increases Boeing’s total MH-139A contract to 34 aircraft, with the first of the Lot 3 helicopters slated for Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.

“The MH-139A offers increased speed, range and payload capacity critical to supporting U.S. national security missions,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director.

The MH-139A Grey Wolf, based on the Leonardo AW139 and customized with military equipment by Boeing, is a versatile multi-mission helicopter. It is designed for patrol, search and rescue, troop transport, cargo transport, and monitoring Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles around the clock.

To date, Boeing has delivered 18 aircraft, including 12 low-rate initial production units. Deliveries for the first operational unit at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, have been completed, with four more aircraft expected this year.

“The MH-139A Grey Wolf represents the best of partnership and proven capability,” said Robert Beyer, MH-139 senior program manager at Leonardo Helicopters. “With each new lot, we continue to strengthen national security missions while supporting American manufacturing and jobs.”