MH-139A

The MH-139A Program is a major Air Force procurement initiative designed to replace the aging fleet of UH-1N helicopters. The primary goal of this program is to address critical capability gaps in speed, range, endurance, payload capacity, and aircraft self-protection, which are essential for supporting the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) missions.

This program is part of the Air Force's nuclear enterprise reform initiatives and is intended to modernize vertical airlift capabilities to meet current and future operational requirements. The MH-139A program aims to procure a total of 56 aircraft, along with eight Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs) and associated support equipment. Procurement is structured over multiple fiscal years, with the FY 2026 request supporting the full-rate production lot of two aircraft, including training, support equipment, site activation, depot activation, interim supply support, and contractor support.

The program is managed under Program Element 0102110F and is classified as a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP), reflecting its strategic importance and scale. One of the key objectives of the MH-139A program is to enhance the Air Force's ability to perform homeland defense missions, respond to domestic emergencies, and provide military support to civil authorities. This requirement is mandated by Section 1815 of the FY08 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 110-181), which calls for improved capabilities for both active and reserve components.

The MH-139A's advanced performance characteristics are expected to significantly improve operational effectiveness in these areas. The program also includes substantial investment in training and support infrastructure. Funding covers the acquisition of training devices, site activation support, and initial spares to ensure that new aircraft can be integrated into service with minimal disruption.

Additionally, the program supports depot activation and sustainment planning, with decisions on Depot Source of Repair (DSOR) assigning responsibilities to Fleet Readiness Center East for hardware components, Ogden ALC, Warner Robins ALC, and Oklahoma City ALC for hardware and software, and JBSA-Lackland for cryptographic hardware. The budget request for FY 2026 includes discretionary and mandatory funding for production aircraft and associated costs. The program also reflects efforts to promote government efficiency, with a reduction in funding for Advisory and Assistance Services in alignment with Executive Order 14222, intended to advance cost-efficiency policies and streamline program management.

Procurement history indicates that Boeing, located in Ridley Park, PA, is the primary contractor for the MH-139A airframe and contractor-furnished equipment, with fixed-price contracts awarded through the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC/WI - ISR & SOF). Production schedules and delivery timelines are closely managed to ensure timely fielding of new aircraft, with ongoing coordination between item managers and depot facilities to address gaps and integrate common assets.