550th Helicopter Squadron begins MH-139A initial operational tests and evaluations
Two MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters assigned to the 550th Helicopter Squadron perform an Initial Operational Test and Evaluation mission over Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., Jan. 28, 2025. IOT&E is a critical phase in the development and fielding of new military systems. It's a rigorous testing and evaluation process that assesses the system's operational effectiveness, suitability and survivability in a realistic and operational environment. Three MH-139 IOT&E flights took place during the week of Jan. 27, 2025, demonstrating the aircraft’s capabilities. One test evaluated the aircraft’s ability to support a convoy, assessing communication systems and general convoy support operations. The other two tests focused on emergency response, specifically launch facility recapture and recovery - measuring response times from idle to airborne. The helicopters responded to a simulated threat with a full tactical response force loadout and onboard weapons. Congress mandates IOT&E to ensure the aircraft can successfully perform its assigned missions, as well as to provide evidence confirming the MH-139 can seamlessly assume the UH-1N Huey’s mission without any lapse in capability. Once IOT&E is complete, a report will be compiled to inform the 550th Helicopter Squadron and Air Force Global Strike Command of the aircraft’s performance. At that point, AFGSC can formally assign the nuclear security mission to the MH-139, allowing the UH-1N Huey to be retired from duty at Malmstrom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mary Bowers)