EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Air Force’s new MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter successfully concluded critical electromagnetic compatibility testing at the Benefield Anechoic Facility on Edwards Air Force Base, California, Nov. 24.
Crews and technicians prepare an MH-139 Grey Wolf for external electromagnetic capability testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Sept. 25. Due to certain test requirements, members from the 772nd Test Squadron brought their equipment outdoors from the Benefield Anechoic Facility. (Photo by Ariana Ortega)
The testing evaluated the Grey Wolf's electronic warfare systems and avionics within the highly controlled, radio frequency-isolated environment of the BAF, which is vital for validating its survivability against electromagnetic threats.
The MH-139 Grey Wolf is fundamentally designed to replace the Air Force's aging UH-1N Huey fleet, with its primary mission being the security and surveillance of the nation's intercontinental ballistic missile sites.
Crews with the 772nd Test Squadron refuel an MH-139A Grey Wolf at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Nov. 24. The aircraft completed critical electromagnetic compatibility testing at the Benefield Anechoic Facility with the 772nd Test Squadron, part of the 412th Test Wing. The testing evaluated the Grey Wolf's electronic warfare systems and avionics within the highly controlled, radio frequency-isolated environment of the BAF, which is vital for validating its survivability against electromagnetic threats. (Photo by Giancarlo Casem)
Beyond nuclear security, the Grey Wolf's advanced capabilities—including greater speed, range, and lifting capacity—will enable it to take on other vital roles. These include airlift of distinguished visitors, search and rescue, disaster response, and support for other priority security and transport missions for Air Force Global Strike Command and other major commands, making it a truly multi-mission platform.
The completion of this phase is a key step toward the helicopter's operational deployment for the Air Force.
An MH-139A Grey Wolf assigned to the 908th Airlift Wing prepares to depart Edwards Air Force Base on Nov. 24. The aircraft completed critical electromagnetic compatibility testing at the Benefield Anechoic Facility with the 772nd Test Squadron, part of the 412th Test Wing. The testing evaluated the Grey Wolf's electronic warfare systems and avionics within the highly controlled, radio frequency-isolated environment of the BAF, which is vital for validating its survivability against electromagnetic threats. (Photos by Giancarlo Casem)