FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certification and USAF acceptance pave the way for testing the helicopter's military utility capabilities. The MH-139A is based on Leonardo's AW139 multi-mission helicopter manufactured at its Philadelphia helicopter facility
Leonardo and Boeing have delivered the first four MH-139A Gray Wolf helicopters, destined for testing activities, to the US Air Force allowing the operator to start the replacement of the obsolete UH-1N. Based on Leonardo's highly successful AW139 'dual-use' helicopter, the Gray Wolf is a multi-mission aircraft designed to protect ICBMs and carry US government personnel and security forces. In September 2018, Boeing was awarded a contract worth $ 2,4 billion for up to 80 helicopters, training systems and other support equipment.
“We are thrilled with the acceptance of the first two MH-139As by the US Air Force,” said Clyde Woltman, CEO of Leonardo Helicopters US. “This helicopter is well positioned to become an important asset for US defense and security. I would like to thank in particular the integrated teams of Leonardo and Boeing for the tireless work and ingenuity shown and which made this result possible ”.
The start of deliveries follows the completion of additional certification activities by the FAA - Federal Aviation Administration, necessary for the formal acceptance procedure of the aircraft. Boeing and the US Air Force will now proceed to conduct further development and initial operational testing to support the program.
"The Gray Wolf is a modern and versatile helicopter that offers greater range, speed and range than the UH-1N it is replacing," said Mark Cherry, vice president and general manager for Boeing operations. in the vertical flight sector. “I am proud of our team which, together with our partner Leonardo, has enabled us to achieve this goal, a first fundamental step in the long series of deliveries planned for the Gray Wolfs”.
Leonardo produces the helicopter at its facility in northeastern Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for the acquisition and installation of military equipment and support for the aircraft after delivery.