Two helicopters MH-139 Grey Wolfassigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron, on January 8, 2026 completed their first operational mission to escort an intercontinental ballistic missile convoy Minuteman III (ICBM).
The operation, conducted from Malmstrom Air Force Base, marked an important step in the modernization of nuclear security operations down under Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC).
During the mission, the MH-139 escorted a series of missile maintenance vehicles and armored security vehicles to and from a launch facility more than 160 kilometers from the base. The movement, which lasted about six hours, was carried out without the need for refueling, demonstrating the longer range and efficiency of the new helicopter, which is designed to replace the UH-1N Huey after more than five decades of service.
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According to the 20th Air Force, initial operational use MH-139 showing significant improvements in speed, range and carrying capacity. This aircraft is about 50% faster than the Huey, can reach locations more quickly, and is capable of carrying a larger number of armed personnel, in addition to being equipped with an improved defense system.
Operational demands on Malmstrom are high: its area of responsibility covers approximately 13,800 square miles, with more than 100 launch facilities spread across a variety of terrain, including prairies, plains and mountains. In this context, rapid response capabilities are considered crucial for the security of convoys and nuclear installations.
The escort flights provided valuable operational experience for AFGSC as the 20th Air Force moves toward Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the Gray Wolf fleet. The MH-139 program has been running for several years. The first units were delivered by Boeing to the United States Air Force in December 2019, marking the start of development tests as a replacement for the UH-1N. In March 2024, Malmstrom officially accepted the model, and conversion training began the following month. The first Initial Operational Test and Evaluation flight focused on nuclear safety took place in January 2025.
In addition to replacing legacy platforms, the MH-139 was evaluated specifically for nuclear security missions, such as convoy support and emergency response, including launch facility recapture and recovery scenarios. According to the Air Force, the new helicopter improves crew situational awareness through advanced sensor and avionics systems, including FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared).
Personnel involved in the operation highlighted that the integration of the MH-139 into the mission was smooth and immediately provided enhanced air support capabilities for ground convoys. The transition from the UH-1N to the MH-139 is seen as one of the most visible early stages of the next phase of the Global Strike mission, preparing the ground for full integration with the Sentinel program.
Gray Wolf’s first operational mission was described as a historic milestone for Malmstrom’s security unit, strengthening the readiness and reliability of strategic deterrence operations, which demand continuous vigilance and rapid response capabilities.
Sources and pictures: Air Force Global Strike Command. This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
