The United States Air Force Global Strike Command confirmed that the Boeing MH-139A Grey Wolf reached initial operational capability on August 10, 2026. This milestone marks the official transition for the fleet, which is tasked with the security of intercontinental ballistic missile fields across the United States.
The Grey Wolf, a militarized version of the Leonardo AW139, replaces the legacy UH-1N Huey fleet that has operated in these missile fields since 1970. According to official statements, the new platform offers a nearly 50 percent increase in speed and double the troop capacity of its predecessor. The aircraft also features updated defensive systems designed to meet modern security requirements.
Boeing serves as the prime contractor for the program, managing the integration of military-specific equipment and post-delivery support for the Leonardo-built airframes. As of early 2026, the manufacturer had delivered 21 units. Beyond its primary role in escorting Minuteman III convoys, the MH-139A is expected to support the eventual transition to the LGM-35A Sentinel program, providing search, rescue, and logistics capabilities across a vast operational area.