The U.S. Air Force’s new MH-139A “Grey Wolf” helicopter recently took part for the first time in a Nuclear Convoy Course (NCC) exercise — a key week-long training event that plays a vital role in ensuring the safe transport of nuclear weapons and materials. Boeing is already seeing a surge in orders, although the full transition to the new aircraft is still scheduled for the near future. These helicopters are being deployed to enhance the security of U.S. strategic nuclear forces.

Back in late 2016, the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), which oversees the nation’s land-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) arsenal, launched a competition to select a new aircraft platform. Boeing entered the race with the MH-139 — a modified version of the European-designed Leonardo (AgustaWestland) AW139 helicopter. In 2018, Boeing won the contract to deliver 84 helicopters for further testing. The total cost for maintenance and crew training was estimated at around $2.5 billion.

Boeing experienced a major surge in orders from the Air Force in 2023. A series of contracts were signed based on evolving needs — the first worth $285 million for the production of a dozen helicopters, followed by another in 2024 valued at $178 million for the production of seven more Grey Wolves.