Boeing will provide its MH-139 helicopter and related support to the US Air Force to replace the UH-1N ‘Huey’ helicopters used to protect America’s intercontinental ballistic missile bases.

The programme is valued at $2.4 billion (£1.82 billion) for up to 84 helicopters, training devices and associated support equipment.

The MH-139 derives from the Leonardo AW139, which is used by more than 270 governments, militaries and companies worldwide. Leonardo will assemble the helicopters at its northeast Philadelphia plant, with Boeing integrating military-specific components at its facility south of that city.

The contract also includes operations, maintenance, training systems and support equipment for the MH-139 aircraft.

David Koopersmith, vice president and general manager, Boeing Vertical Lift, commented: “We’re grateful for the Air Force’s confidence in our MH-139 team. The MH-139 exceeds mission requirements, it’s also ideal for VIP transport, and it offers the Air Force up to $1 billion in acquisition and lifecycle cost savings.”

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