NewsMilitary Matters

Actions

Boeing receives Air Force contract for Huey helicopter

Posted at 8:34 PM, Sep 24, 2018
and last updated 2018-09-24 22:34:39-04

Malmstrom Air Force Base

The Air Force announced on Monday that The Boeing Company was awarded the first portion of a $2.38 billion firm-fixed contract for a UH-1N Replacement helicopter.

In June, the Air Force said each UH-1N Huey location will receive replacement aircraft, which includes Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls.

The Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs wrote that the original service cost estimate was $4.1 billion.

The Air Force released a statement on Monday saying the award of approximately $375 million is for the first four helicopters and includes the integration of non-development items. This additional equipment integrated into the aircraft will ensure the helicopters are ready to meet warfighter needs upon delivery.

The statement continues that the total program cost for the UH-1N Replacement Program reflects the exercise of all options and provides for the acquisition and sustainment of up to 84 MH-139 helicopters, training devices and associated support equipment to replace the legacy UH-1Ns.

The new helicopter will be an important tool for Airmen charged with securing and defending the nation’s intercontinental ballistic missiles. The Air Force will also use the aircraft for training, test and operational support airlift.

“I’m pleased to see the Air Force take this critical step to provide Montana’s airmen of the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom with the equipment needed to keep the missile fields secure and defend our skies and nation,” Senator Steve Daines said.