Integris Composites Achieves Milestone with Boeing's MH-139A Grey Wolf Delivery
Integris Composites Takes a Leap Forward in Aerospace Armor Production
In a significant advancement in aerospace defense, Integris Composites, Inc., has reached a pivotal milestone with the recent delivery of the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production aircraft to the U.S. Air Force by Boeing. This event not only marks a major step for Boeing but also signals the successful realization of Integris' strategic vision established back in 2015 to become a Prime Tier One supplier to prominent aerospace manufacturers.
In 2018, Boeing was selected as the main contractor for the creation of the MH-139A, collaborating with Leonardo as the original equipment manufacturer. This aircraft is set to replace the storied UH-1N Huey helicopters, revered in military history since the Vietnam War. The UH-1N has served a crucial role in protecting intercontinental missile bases across the United States, but the capabilities and flexibility of the new Grey Wolf will substantially enhance operational efficiency.
The first production aircraft, equipped with armor developed by Integris, was delivered on August 5, 2024. This moment heralds the culmination of nearly a decade of strategic development and collaborative engineering between Integris and Boeing.
Andrew Bonham, president of Integris Composites, remarked, "This event signifies the culmination of a nine-year journey. By achieving AS9100 certification in 2017, a crucial credential for rigorous aerospace standards, we laid the groundwork for a fruitful partnership with Boeing that began with a contract to engineer the MH-139A armor system. From design and quality assurance through to development, we worked tirelessly alongside Boeing and the Air Force to establish a robust armor solution for the Grey Wolf."
The contributions by Integris to the MH-139A project exemplify its growth from its previous establishment in Europe as TenCate Advanced Armour. The rebranding to Integris Composites in 2023 marked a strategic pivot that underscored its commitment to the aerospace sector in the United States. Chief Commercial Officer David Cordova highlighted that their advancements firmly position Integris as a trusted provider of ballistic armor systems, which are critical for safeguarding defense personnel under hostile conditions.
"Our objective has always been to provide the most advanced strength-to-weight armor solutions for military entities across the globe, and achieving Tier One status has significantly strengthened our reputation within the industry," Cordova stated. Currently, Integris holds contracts not just with Boeing but also with leading aerospace OEMs, including Bell Flight and Airbus, among others, further solidifying its imprint in the defense sector.
As the U.S. Air Force continues to modernize its fleet, Integris Composites stands ready to support its strategic initiatives like the MH-139A and beyond. The multifaceted armor kits produced by Integris offer comprehensive protection, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of personnel operating in high-stakes environments.
With the successful delivery of the first MH-139A aircraft, Integris is poised to further expand its capabilities and redefine the standards of ballistic protection within the aerospace domain. Their journey serves as an inspiration for other manufacturers in the field, illustrating that dedication, foresight, and strategic partnerships can yield remarkable achievements in the aerospace and defense industry.