550th Helicopter Squadron begins MH-139A initial operational tests and evaluations

A group of tactical response force Airmen assigned to the 341st Missile Security Operations Squadron communicate with one another during an MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter Initial Operational Test and Evaluation exercise at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., Jan. 28, 2025. The exercise simulated a nuclear launch facility recapture and recovery mission, designed to assess the helicopter’s ability to insert and extract tactical response force Airmen, while maintaining effective communication between the air and ground forces. Meanwhile, the TRF teams were separately evaluated on their performance by Security Forces Airmen from the weapons and tactics department. The scenario began with TRF and 550 HS alert forces receiving notification of a simulated emergency at a launch facility. Upon arrival, Grey Wolf crews conducted multiple flyovers of the scene before landing at a secure distance to deploy TRF teams, then quickly returning to the air to provide aerial cover. Using their shoot, move and communication tactics , TRF teams neutralized the simulated enemy threat and successfully recaptured the launch facility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mary Bowers)