The U.S. Air Force’s MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC), according to Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC).
The milestone marks the beginning of the Grey Wolf’s operational use as a replacement for the UH-1N Huey, which has supported the Air Force’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) security mission for more than five decades.
The MH-139A is nearly 50% faster than the UH-1N, can carry twice as many troops, and is equipped with upgraded defensive systems. The helicopter is designed to support security forces operating across the missile fields under the 20th Air Force, whose area of responsibility covers approximately 33,600 square miles across prairies, plains, and mountainous terrain.
The Grey Wolf is being introduced as the U.S. Air Force prepares to transition from the Minuteman III ICBM to the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel. According to AFGSC, the helicopter’s speed, range, and command-and-control capabilities are intended to support security operations during the transition, including at new Sentinel sites and existing Minuteman III facilities.
The path to IOC included testing, crew training and operational missions conducted by the 582nd Helicopter Group. In January 2026, the 40th Helicopter Squadron used the MH-139A to escort a Minuteman III ICBM convoy involving maintenance and armoured security vehicles. The convoy covered more than 100 miles over six hours without refuelling.
The 550th Helicopter Squadron conducted the Grey Wolf’s first Initial Operational Test and Evaluation flight in January 2025.
In addition to supporting ICBM convoy operations and emergency response missions, the MH-139A is also intended for search and rescue, disaster response and medical evacuation missions.
AFGSC commander Gen. S.L. Davis said the MH-139A would improve the command’s capabilities for securing ICBM assets, while 582nd Helicopter Group commander Col. Bryant Bevan described the transition from the UH-1N as an upgrade in speed, range and survivability for airborne security forces.