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2 Grey Wolf aircraft complete first nuclear security mission

“MH-139 strengthens nuclear surety by giving our Airmen a more capable platform to protect our forces,” U.S. Air Force says.

January 20, 2026 in Defense

Two MH-139A Grey Wolf aircraft recently conducted their first operational nuclear security convoy mission, marking an important milestone in the modernization of the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command’s nuclear security operations.

Why it matters: Flying over a column of missile maintenance and armored security vehicles carrying Boeing-made Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) to and from a launch facility, the aircraft ensured the safe transport of all crew and cargo.

A U.S. Air Force MH-139A Grey Wolf assigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron conducts its first operational mission at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, Jan. 8, 2026. The mission marks the beginning of the replacement of the Vietnam-era UH-1N Huey and represents a key step in modernizing security for the nation’s land-based nuclear deterrent. A U.S. Air Force MH-139A Grey Wolf assigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron conducts its first operational mission at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, Jan. 8, 2026. The mission marks the beginning of the replacement of the Vietnam-era UH-1N Huey and represents a key step in modernizing security for the nation’s land-based nuclear deterrent. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Teniya Caldwell)

What the customer said:

  • “Our ICBM mission is the foundation of strategic deterrence, and it demands absolute reliability, security and readiness,” said Col. Daniel Voorhies, 341st Missile Wing commander. “The MH-139 strengthens nuclear surety by giving our Airmen a more capable platform to protect our forces as they carry out the nation’s most imperative mission, 24/7/365.”
  • “Executing our first convoy mission with two MH-139s marks a significant step forward in strengthening our missile security operations,” said Maj. Gen. Stacy Huser, 20th Air Force commander. “The MH-139 allows us to continue supporting our ICBM enterprise for decades to come with increased speed, range and lift.”

Meeting customer commitments: The MH-139s proved their speed and range while shepherding the vehicles for more than 100 miles (160 kilometers) without needing to refuel during the six-hour movement, demonstrating the superior capabilities of AFGSC’s newest helicopter as the Air Force prepares to retire the UH-1N Huey after more than five decades of service. 

Go deeper: Read more about the mission here.