In a deal worth more than $173 million, the US Air Force has awarded Boeing a contract to produce eight more MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters and provide training and sustainment support services.

"The MH-139A offers increased speed, range and payload capacity critical to supporting US national security missions," said Azeem Khan, MH-139 program director. "We look forward to delivering these advanced aircraft to bases across the country."

Following a $178 million award for seven aircraft last April, this new order raises the total number under contract to 34 and includes the first set of aircraft anticipated for deployment to Minot Air Force Base (AFB), North Dakota.

The Air Force recently completed Initial Operational Test & Evaluation flights as the MH-139A program continues to move toward Initial Operational Capability.

To date, Boeing has delivered 18 aircraft, including 12 low-rate initial production assets. Boeing completed deliveries for the first operational unit at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, this year and anticipates delivering four more aircraft to the Air Force this year.

Based on the proven Leonardo Helicopters AW139 and fitted with custom military equipment by Boeing, the MH-139A is a multi-mission helicopter designed for patrol, search and rescue, and troop and cargo transport.

"The MH-139A Grey Wolf represents the best of partnership and proven capability," said Robert Beyer, MH-139 senior program manager at Leonardo Helicopters. "By building on the trusted AW139 platform, we've been able to deliver a versatile aircraft to the warfighter that is already demonstrating its value to the US Air Force. With each new lot, we are proud to continue strengthening national security missions while supporting American manufacturing and jobs."