Malmstrom AFB Unit Putting New System Through Paces

The 550th Helicopter Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana, conducted the first flight of its new Boeing MH-139 Grey Wolf in the Initial Operational Test and Evaluation program (IOT&E), a critical phase in the development and fielding of new military systems.

The flight was performed on January 28, 2025 in conjunction with two UH-1N Huey helicopters of the 40th Helicopter Squadron, also at Malmstrom.

IOT&E is a rigorous process of testing and evaluation to assess the system’s operational effectiveness, suitability, and survivability in a realistic and operational environment.

Three IOT&E flights were performed during the week of January 27, 2025. One test evaluated the ability of the aircraft to support a convoy, assessing communications systems and general convoy support operations.

The other two flights focused on emergency response, specifically the recapture and recovery of a nuclear launch facility, and measuring response times from idle to airborne. The helicopters responded to a simulated threat with a full tactical response force loadout and onboard weapons.

IOT&E of new systems is mandated by Congress to ensure the aircraft can successfully perform its assigned missions as well as to provide evidence that the MH-139 can seamlessly take over the mission of the UH-1 Huey’s mission with no lapse in capability.

Upon completion of IOT&E, a report will be made to inform the 550th Squadron and the Air Force Global Strike Command of the aircraft’s performance. At that point, the Command can formally assign the nuclear security mission to the MH-139 and allow the Huey to be retired from duty at Malmstrom.

FMI:  www.malmstrom.af.mil/