MH-139 Grey Wolf Advances Into Initial Operational Testing, Evaluation

Helicopters are to take over nuclear security roles currently performed by UH-1N Hueys.

Kimberly Johnson

Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 04:31 PM ET

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Kimberly Johnson

An MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter assigned to the 550th Helicopter Squadron performs an initial operational test and evaluation mission over Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, on January 28.[Courtesy: U.S. Air Force]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Air Force has initiated initial operational testing and evaluation (IOT&E) for the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter.
The MH-139 is intended to replace the aging UH-1N Hueys for crucial nuclear security missions, such as off-base convoy surveillance and missile site support.
Recent tests at Malmstrom Air Force Base evaluated the Grey Wolf's capabilities, including convoy support operations and emergency response times for launch facility recapture.
This testing is mandated by Congress to ensure the MH-139 can seamlessly perform its assigned missions, paving the way for the UH-1N Huey's retirement once successfully completed.

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The U.S. Air Force recently launched initial operational testing and evaluation (IOT&E) of the MH-139 Grey Wolf, the helicopter set to replace the service’s aging fleet of Bell UH-1N Hueys that perform nuclear security missions.

During the week of January 27, three MH-139 flights operated by the 550th Helicopter Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, demonstrated its capabilities, the Air Force said. The squadron activated in 2023 and is responsible for Air Force Global Strike Command’s training and conversion to the MH-139 Grey Wolf.