The US aerospace giant Boeing has confirmed it will provide its MH-139 helicopter and related support to the US Air Force to replace the 40+ year-old UH-1N helicopters, known affectionately as “Huey” which are used primarily to protect America’s intercontinental ballistic missile bases.
The contract is valued at more than $2.4 billion to Boeing, for up to 84 helicopters, training devices and associated support equipment. The MH-139 is a slightly modified version of the popular AgustaWestland / Leonardo AW139, which is used by more than 270 governments, militaries and companies worldwide. Leonardo Helicopters will assemble the craft at its northeast Philadelphia plant, with Boeing integrating military-specific components at its facility south of that city.
“We’re grateful for the Air Force’s confidence in our MH-139 team,” said David Koopersmith, vice president and general manager, Boeing Vertical Lift. “The MH-139 exceeds mission requirements, it’s also ideal for VIP transport, and it offers the Air Force up to $1 billion in acquisition and lifecycle cost savings.”
(Photos Boeing)
