The Boeing MH-139A Grey Wolf is a twin-engine helicopter developed by Boeing for the United States Air Force (USAF). The helicopter is designed to perform security and support missions for the USAF. The helicopter performed its first flight in 2019 and entered military service in 2020. This article explores the role of Grey Wolf in the USAF.
Protection of ballistic missiles
- Active Variant: MH-139A. Military version of the Agusta-Westland AW139 for utility support and light lift.
- Dimensions: Rotor diameter 45.2 ft, length 54.7 ft, height 16.3 ft.
- Weight: Max gross 14,110 lb.
- Power Plant: Two Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C turboshafts, each 1,100 shp.
- Performance: Speed 167 mph, range 890 miles.
- Ceiling: 20,000 ft.
- Armament: Two M240 7.62 mm machine guns (mission dependent).
- Accommodation: Two pilots and a flight engineer.
- Load: 15 passengers (depending on fuel, equipment, and atmospheric conditions) or up to four liters and five medical personnel
Based on the Italian AgustaWestland AW139, the MH-139A Grey Wolf is equipped with advanced-technology integrated systems that allow protection, support, and training missions. Boeing states that the Grey Wolf was “designed to protect intercontinental ballistic missiles and transport U.S. government officials and security forces. Produced in the United States, the MH-139A provides an off-the-shelf, readily available solution combining performance, operational flexibility and safety.”
Photo: Boeing
The USAF’s decision to replace the aging UH-1N Hueys based at Joint Base Andrews (JBA) in Maryland has allowed the continuation of its role for government operations using the MH-139 fleet. The aircraft has prevented the USAF from using support from outside units while maintaining a fleet of modern helicopters for government transport operations.
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Compared to the previous helicopters, the MH-139 features improved speed, range, payload, and endurance. The air support of the intercontinental ballistic missiles has been positioned across various states, including Nebraska, Colorado, North Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming.
The helicopter has a maximum speed of 167 knots, while it generally cruises at 135 knots. Without the need for refueling, the helicopter can reach a distance of 225 NM (260 miles), with an impressive endurance of 180 minutes. At the time of its introduction, the Air Force Global Strike Command Commander General Timothy Ray, commented, as recorded by the Air & Space Forces Magazine,
”We’re going to do more things with this aircraft than we could ever do with the Huey. [The helicopter strikes] fear in the hearts of many. Its range is absolutely inherent to the intercontinental ballistic missile [ICBM] fields we have.”
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The future of missile security & transport missions
- Support of the nuclear security missions by providing emergency security response and convoy escort.
- Contingency response, continuity of operations, and airlift for senior government officials in the National Capital Region.
- Operations support for key personnel as well as test range support
- Formal flight training and medical evacuation and support operations
- Search and rescue via the National Search and Rescue Plan and Defense Support to Civil Authorities.
Photo: Boeing
The MH-139 offers the highest operational flexibility, reliability, and performance for USAF missions. Boeing states some of the key benefits of the Grey Wolf as it pertains to USAF operations.
- Cruise speed: 50% faster
- Operational range: 50% farther, has a
- Cabin size: 30% larger
- Payload capacity: 5,000 more pounds than the legacy platform
- Reduced pilot workload: Full autopilot capability
- Advanced flight deck functionality
- Improved situational awareness
- Right-sized aircraft for maximum operational efficiency and lower operating & support costs
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Moreover, the sustainability benefits of the helicopter results in hundreds of millions in cost savings. Apart from operational efficiency, the helicopter also reduces cost and labor required for maintenance. According to Boeing,
“MH-139A’s lower operating costs, increased reliability & improved maintainability translate into more than $1B in savings for the Air Force across the aircraft’s life cycle. Boeing’s MH-139A meets or exceeds all U.S. Air Force requirements at the most affordable price by reducing the cost and manpower required to operate and maintain the aircraft.”
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A high level of maintainability
The MH-137A is a multirole helicopter used on a variety of missions, requiring very high maintenance standards. The USAF ensures that the helicopter remains in a mission-ready condition through:
- Military and commercial systems integration capabilities
- An integrated training system based on existing AW139 operational flight trainers
- Automated sustainment tools, enabling seamless USG interfaces
- Worldwide DoD support system & parts procurement
- All aircraft maintenance can be performed at the operational level
- Lower commercial maintenance man-hours per flight hour
- Installed a base of more than 1,000 aircraft for guaranteed long-term support
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The MH-139 is designed with high levels of maintainability, particularly when it comes to on-condition maintenance. A large number of maintenance procedures can be performed with a minimal workscope, resulting in minimal in-active time for the helicopter.
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