WASHINGTON (AFNS) —  

The Department of the Air Force selected Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, as the fourth location to host MH-139 Grey Wolves.

The 25 new helicopters will replace the base’s 21 aging UH-1N Hueys. The additional four aircraft will allow the base to execute continuation of government operations and distinguished visitor transport mission requirements without augmenting support units.

In addition to providing updated capabilities to support missions in the National Capital Region, the Grey Wolf will increase speed, range, endurance, payload and survivability in support of the intercontinental ballistic missile mission, civil search and rescue, airlift and survival school/testing.

The manpower required to support this mission will grow from 235 personnel to approximately 310.

Basing the new helicopters at JBA was based on factors related to mission, base capacity, community support, cost and environmental considerations.

DAF is expected to complete the required environmental assessment in summer 2023 before a final decision is made.