CRITICAL NEED- The USAF has selected the MW-139 to replace the UH-1N helicopters. The Air Force classified the need to replace the UH-1N as “urgent and compelling” to Congress. It is fully funded in the FY16 Fiscal Year Defense Plan (FYPD). The program is underway and has been authorized at $1+B.

STATES IMPACTED - ND, MD, WY, CO, MO, CA, NV and other states as the Homeland Security Mission (HSM) requirement is developed

MISSION CRITICAL NEED – Given this award to the MW-139 Helicopter there is now an opportunity for the ANG to develop flying missions for states without flying missions. Also, the states with significant distance to cover in HSM requirements need to consider this AF program to fund the new MW-139 for their states as a solution to the HSM requirement. Today, COTS helicopters regularly fly in small fleets at very low-cost points.

MISSION JUSTIFICATION- The ANG could save the USAF life cycle costs, deliver capability on an accelerated timeline, and takeover all or part of an enduring homeland/domestic flying mission by using this USAF awarded COTS helicopter and the Pilot Program recommendation from the USAF Commission on the Guard recommendation.

OPPORTUNITY - This is an opportunity for the Air National Guard and the States to become actively involved in the HSM using this USAF Award to the MW-139 Helicopter as avenue to transition into a flying mission and adjunct to the Active Force. The Air Force intends to move rapidly and will prioritize speed over perfection. The ANG could step in with a well thought out solution, and get all or a part of this program, if they are willing to bring the full weight of their political and military might to bear.