Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey#Aircraft on display
{{Short description|Military transport tiltrotor}}
{{Redirect|V-22|other uses|V22 (disambiguation)}}
{{pp-pc|small=yes}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2021}}
{{Infobox aircraft
|name = V-22 Osprey
|image = MV-22 mcas Miramar 2014.JPG
|image_caption = A MV-22 being used during a MAGTF demonstration during the 2014 Miramar Air Show
|alt =
|aircraft_type = Tiltrotor military transport aircraft
|national_origin = United States
|first_flight = 19 March 1989
|manufacturer = {{ubl |Bell Helicopter |Boeing Defense, Space & Security}}
|status = In service
|primary_user = United States Marine Corps
|more_users = {{ubl |United States Air Force |United States Navy |Japan Ground Self-Defense Force}}
|produced = 1988–present
|developed_from = Bell XV-15
|variants = Bell Boeing Quad TiltRotor
}}
The Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is an American multi-use, tiltrotor military transport and cargo aircraft with both vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities. It is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft. The V-22 is operated by the United States and Japan, and is not only a new aircraft design, but a new type of aircraft that entered service in the 2000s, a tiltrotor compared to fixed wing and helicopter designs. The V-22 first flew in 1989 and after a long development was fielded in 2007. The design combines the vertical takeoff ability of a helicopter with the speed and range of a fixed-wing airplane.
The failure of Operation Eagle Claw in 1980 during the Iran hostage crisis underscored that there were military roles for which neither conventional helicopters nor fixed-wing transport aircraft were well-suited. The United States Department of Defense (DoD) initiated a program to develop an innovative transport aircraft with long-range, high-speed, and vertical-takeoff capabilities, and the Joint-service Vertical take-off/landing Experimental (JVX) program officially began in 1981. A partnership between Bell Helicopter and Boeing Helicopters was awarded a development contract in 1983 for the V-22 tiltrotor aircraft. The Bell-Boeing team jointly produces the aircraft. The V-22 first flew in 1989 and began flight testing and design alterations; the complexity and difficulties of being the first tiltrotor for military service led to many years of development.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) began crew training for the MV-22B Osprey in 2000 and fielded it in 2007; it supplemented and then replaced their Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knights. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) fielded its version of the tiltrotor, the CV-22B, in 2009. Since entering service with the Marine Corps and Air Force, the Osprey has been deployed in transportation and medevac operations over Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Kuwait. The U.S. Navy began using the CMV-22B for carrier onboard delivery duties in 2021.
Development
=Origins=
The failure of Operation Eagle Claw, the Iran hostage rescue mission, in 1980 demonstrated to the U.S. military a needKreisher, Otto. {{usurped|1=[https://archive.today/20090211080603/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2009/February%202009/0209Osprey.aspx "Finally, the Osprey"]}}. Air Force Magazine, February 2009.Whittle 2010, p. 62. for "a new type of aircraft, that could not only take off and land vertically but also could carry combat troops, and do so at speed."Mackenzie, Richard (writer). [http://military.discovery.com/tv/osprey/osprey.html "Flight of the V-22 Osprey" (Television production)]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090228021640/http://military.discovery.com/tv/osprey/osprey.html |date=28 February 2009}} Mackenzie Productions for Military Channel, 7 April 2008. Retrieved 29 March 2009. Additionally, a concentrated force is vulnerable to a single nuclear weapon. Airborne solutions with high speed and range allow for their rapid dispersal to reduce this vulnerability.Whittle 2010, p. 55. The U.S. Department of Defense began the JVX aircraft program in 1981, under U.S. Army leadership.
The established tactical purpose of the USMC is to perform an amphibious landing, which the JVX program promised to facilitate. The USMC's primary helicopter model, the CH-46 Sea Knight, was aging, and no replacement had been accepted.Whittle 2010, p. 91. Because the USMC's amphibious capability would be significantly reduced without the CH-46, USMC leadership believed a proposal to merge the Marine Corps with the Army was a credible threat.Whittle 2010, p. 87: "As Kelly saw it, the future of the Marine Corps was riding on it."Whittle 2010, p. 155. This potential merger was akin to a proposal by President Truman following World War II.Whittle 2010, pp. 53, 55–56. The Office of the Secretary of Defense and Navy administration opposed the tiltrotor project, but pressure from Congress had a significant effect on the program's development.Scroggs, Stephen K. "Army Relations with Congress: Thick Armor, Dull Sword, Slow Horse" p. 232. Greenwood Press, 2000. {{ISBN|9780313019265}}.
The Navy and USMC were given the lead in 1983.Norton 2004, p. 35.Moyers, Al (Director of History and Research). [https://www.afotec.af.mil/News/story/id/123057888/ "The Long Road: AFOTEC's Two-Plus Decades of V-22 Involvement"]. [https://www.afotec.af.mil/News/story/id/123057888/] Headquarters Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center, United States Air Force, 1 August 2007.[https://archive.today/20120805115239/http://www.history.army.mil/books/DAHSUM/1982/ch09.htm "Chapter 9: Research, Development, and Acquisition"]. Department of the Army Historical Summary: FY 1982. Center of Military History (CMH), United States Army, 1988. {{ISSN|0092-7880}}. The JVX combined requirements from the USMC, USAF, Army and Navy.Norton 2004, pp. 22–30.[http://www.aiaa.org/content.cfm?pageid=406&gTable=mtgpaper&gID=79150 "AIAA-83-2726, Bell-Boeing JVX Tilt Rotor Program"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211115555/http://www.aiaa.org/content.cfm?pageid=406&gTable=mtgpaper&gID=79150 |date=11 February 2009}} American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), 16–18 November 1983. A request for preliminary design proposals was issued in December 1982. Interest was expressed by Aérospatiale, Bell Helicopter, Boeing Vertol, Grumman, Lockheed, and Westland. Contractors were encouraged to form teams. Bell partnered with Boeing Vertol to submit a proposal for an enlarged version of the Bell XV-15 prototype on 17 February 1983. Since this was the only proposal the JVX program received, a preliminary design contract was awarded on 26 April 1983.Norton 2004, pp. 31–33.Kishiyama, David. [https://web.archive.org/web/20121105112424/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/latimes/access/672749922.html?dids=672749922:672749922&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:AI&type=historic&date=Aug+31,+1984&author=&pub=Los+Angeles+Times&desc=Hybrid+Craft+Being+Developed+for+Military+and+Civilian+Use&pqatl=google "Hybrid Craft Being Developed for Military and Civilian Use"]. Los Angeles Times, 31 August 1984.
The JVX aircraft was designated V-22 Osprey on 15 January 1985; by that March, the first six prototypes were being produced, and Boeing Vertol was expanded to handle the workload.Adams, Lorraine. [http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3CD43A7B71E1B&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "Sales Talk Whirs about Bell Helicopter"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125433/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3CD43A7B71E1B&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} Dallas Morning News,10 March 1985.[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB299149DB47D2B&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "Boeing Vertol launches Three-Year, $50 Million Expansion Program"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125459/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB299149DB47D2B&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} The Philadelphia Inquirer, 4 March 1985. Production work is split between Bell and Boeing. Bell Helicopter manufactures and integrates the wing, nacelles, rotors, drive system, tail surfaces, and aft ramp, as well as integrating the Rolls-Royce engines and performing final assembly. Boeing Helicopters manufactures and integrates the fuselage, cockpit, avionics, and flight controls.[http://www.boeing.com/rotorcraft/military/v22/docs/V-22_overview.pdf "V-22 Osprey Backgrounder"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100206025214/http://www.boeing.com/rotorcraft/military/v22/docs/V-22_overview.pdf |date=6 February 2010}} Boeing Defense, Space & Security, February 2010.[http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/aircraft/military/bellV-22.cfm "Military Aircraft: The Bell-Boeing V-22"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328013808/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/aircraft/military/bellV-22.cfm |date=28 March 2010}} Bell Helicopter, 2007. Retrieved 30 December 2010. The USMC variant received the MV-22 designation, and the USAF variant received CV-22; this was reversed from normal procedure to prevent USMC Ospreys from having a conflicting CV designation with aircraft carriers.Norton 2004, p. 30. Full-scale development began in 1986.[http://opencrs.com/document/RL31384 RL31384, "V-22 Osprey Tilt-Rotor Aircraft: Background and Issues for Congress"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210092501/http://www.opencrs.com/document/RL31384 |date=10 February 2009}} Congressional Research Service, 22 December 2009. On 3 May 1986, Bell Boeing was awarded a US$1.714 billion contract for the V-22 by the U.S. Navy. At this point, all four U.S. military services had acquisition plans for the V-22.Goodrich, Joseph L. [https://web.archive.org/web/20121105112439/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/projo/access/601922891.html?dids=601922891:601922891&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=May+03,+1986&author=JOSEPH+L.+GOODRICH+Journal-Bulletin+Financial+Editor&pub=The+Providence+Journal&desc=Bell-Boeing+team+lands+contract+to+develop+new+tilt-rotor+aircraft+600+jobs+expected+from+$1.714-billion+project+for+Navy&pqatl=google "Bell-Boeing team lands contract to develop new tilt-rotor aircraft, 600 jobs expected from $1.714-billion project for Navy"]. Providence Journal, 3 May 1986.
The first V-22 was publicly rolled out in May 1988.Belden, Tom. [https://web.archive.org/web/20121107035035/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/access/473702671.html?dids=473702671:473702671&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=May+23%2C+1988&author=Tom+Belden+Special+to+The+Star&pub=Toronto+Star&desc=Vertical-takeoff+plane+may+be+the+21st+century%27s+intercity+bus&pqatl=google "Vertical-takeoff plane may be the 21st century's intercity bus"]. Toronto Star, 23 May 1988.[https://sportsghoda.com/osprey-v-22-aircraft/ "Tilt-rotor craft flies like copter, plane"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230828074532/https://sportsghoda.com/osprey-v-22-aircraft/ |date=28 August 2023}} Sports Ghoda, 28 August 2023. That year, the U.S. Army left the program, citing a need to focus its budget on more immediate aviation programs. In 1989, the V-22 survived two separate Senate votes that could have resulted in cancellation.[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB95F7F483B29F2&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "2 Senators key to fate of Boeing's V-22 Osprey"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125550/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB95F7F483B29F2&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} The Philadelphia Inquirer, 6 July 1989.Mitchell, Jim. [http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3D0816D568CFD&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "Gramm defends Osprey's budget cost: Senator makes pitch for V-22 as president stumps for B-2 bomber"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125607/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3D0816D568CFD&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} Dallas Morning News, 22 July 1989. Despite the Senate's decision, the Department of Defense instructed the Navy not to spend more money on the V-22.[https://web.archive.org/web/20121107035121/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/chicagotribune/access/24666558.html?dids=24666558:24666558&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Dec+03%2C+1989&author=&pub=Chicago+Tribune+(pre-1997+Fulltext)&desc=Pentagon+halts+spending+on+V-22+Osprey&pqatl=google "Pentagon halts spending on V-22 Osprey"]. Chicago Tribune, 3 December 1989. As development cost projections greatly increased in 1988, Defense Secretary Dick Cheney tried to defund it from 1989 to 1992, but was overruled by Congress, which provided unrequested program funding.Norton 2004, p. 49. Multiple studies of alternatives found the V-22 provided more capability and effectiveness with similar operating costs.Norton 2004, p. 52. The Clinton Administration was supportive of the V-22, helping it attain funding.
Although the Army departed the program, it eventually developed and chose a tiltrotor to replace the UH-60 Blackhawk in the 21st century, and as of the mid-2020s the Army is planning to field the V-280 Valor tiltrotor.{{Cite web |first=Meredith |last=Roaten |date=5 December 2022 |title=Army Chooses Bell Textron's V-280 Valor Tiltrotor to Replace Black Hawk |url=https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2022/12/5/bell-tiltrotor-wins-billion-dollar-helo-contract |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=National Defense}}
=Flight testing and design changes=
File:V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.jpg
The first of six prototypes first flew on 19 March 1989 in the helicopter mode[https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=OXwUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=-gIEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4248,6782946&dq=v22+osprey&hl=en "Revolutionary plane passes first test"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201222150201/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=OXwUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=-gIEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4248,6782946&dq=v22+osprey&hl=en |date=22 December 2020}}. Toledo Blade, 20 March 1989. and on 14 September 1989 in fixed-wing mode.Mitchell, Jim. [http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3D0966AF1C330&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "V-22 makes first flight in full airplane mode"]. {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125618/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3D0966AF1C330&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} Dallas Morning News, 15 September 1989. The third and fourth prototypes successfully completed the first sea trials on {{USS|Wasp|LHD-1|6}} in December 1990.Jones, Kathryn. [https://archive.today/20120629160852/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED3D14925CBE8FF&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "V-22 tilt-rotor passes tests at sea"]. Dallas Morning News, 14 December 1990. The fourth and fifth prototypes crashed in 1991–92.[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=ST&s_site=dfw&p_multi=ST&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAF8E1952EE8AB7&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM "Navy halts test flights of V-22 as crash investigated"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024125649/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=ST&s_site=dfw&p_multi=ST&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAF8E1952EE8AB7&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |date=24 October 2012}} Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 June 1991. From October 1992 to April 1993, the V-22 was redesigned to reduce empty weight, simplify manufacture, and reduce build costs; it was designated V-22B. Flights resumed in June 1993 after safety changes were made to the prototypes.Norton 2004, p. 55. Bell Boeing received a contract for the engineering manufacturing development (EMD) phase in June 1994.Norton 2004, pp. 52–54. The prototypes were also modified to resemble the V-22B standard. At this stage, testing focused on flight envelope expansion, measuring flight loads, and supporting the EMD redesign. Flight testing with the early V-22s continued into 1997.Norton 2004, pp. 55–57.
File:aircraft.osprey.678pix.jpg
Flight testing of four full-scale development V-22s began at the Naval Air Warfare Test Center, Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. The first EMD flight took place on 5 February 1997. Testing soon fell behind schedule.Schinasi 2008, p. 23. The first of four low rate initial production aircraft, ordered on 28 April 1997, was delivered on 27 May 1999. The second sea trials were completed onboard {{USS|Saipan|LHA-2|6}} in January 1999. During external load testing in April 1999, a V-22 transported the lightweight M777 howitzer.[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/M777-He-Aint-Heavy-Hes-my-Howitzer-04829/ "M777: He Ain't Heavy, He's my Howitzer"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120910064433/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/M777-He-Aint-Heavy-Hes-my-Howitzer-04829/ |date=10 September 2012}}Defense Industry Daily, 18 July 2012.[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/lots-riding-on-v22-osprey-03110/ "Lots Riding on V-22 Osprey"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105091127/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/lots-riding-on-v22-osprey-03110/ |date=5 January 2012}}Defense Industry Daily, 12 March 2007.
In 2000, there were two fatal crashes, killing a total of 23 marines, and the V-22 was again grounded while the crashes' causes were investigated and various parts were redesigned.Berler, Ron. [https://www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.07/osprey.html?pg=1&topic=osprey "Saving the Pentagon's Killer Chopper-Plane"]. {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106120946/http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/13.07/osprey.html?pg=1&topic=osprey |date=6 November 2012}} Wired (CondéNet, Inc), Volume 13, Issue 7, July 2005. In June 2005, the V-22 completed its final operational evaluation, including long-range deployments, high altitude, desert and shipboard operations; problems previously identified had reportedly been resolved.{{cite web |last=Castelli |first=Christopher J. |url=http://www.navair.navy.mil/V22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=130 |title=Pentagon Testing Office Concurs With Naval Testers, Supports MV-22 |work=Naval Air Systems Command, United States Navy |via=Inside the Navy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201235013/http://www.navair.navy.mil/V22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=130 |archive-date=1 December 2016 |date=12 September 2005 |access-date=19 June 2019}}
U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) worked on software upgrades to increase the maximum speed from {{convert|250|to|270|kn|km/h mph|sigfig=2}}, increase helicopter mode altitude limit from {{convert|10000|to|12000|ft|m|sigfig=2}} or {{convert|14000|ft|m|sigfig=2}}, and increase lift performance.Chavanne, Bettina H. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=mro&id=news/ospr6259.xml&headline=V-22%20To%20Get%20Performance%20Upgrades "V-22 To Get Performance Upgrades"].{{dead link |date=March 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}Aviation Week, 25 June 2009. By 2012, changes had been made to the hardware, software, and procedures in response to hydraulic fires in the nacelles, vortex ring state control issues, and opposed landings;Pappalardo, Joe. [http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military/planes-uavs/the-ospreys-real-problem-isnt-safety-its-money-8347657 "The Osprey's Real Problem Isn't Safety{{snd}}It's Money"]. {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120617034117/http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military/planes-uavs/the-ospreys-real-problem-isnt-safety-its-money-8347657 |date=17 June 2012}}Popular Mechanics, 14 June 2012.[http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewStory/story_ID/24235/d/09202011 "Software Change Gives V-22 Pilots More Lift Options"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925051728/http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewStory/story_ID/24235/d/09202011 |date=25 September 2011}}thebaynet.com. Retrieved 24 April 2012. reliability has improved accordingly.Capaccio, Tony. [https://archive.today/20120723025010/http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-01-13/v-22-osprey-aircraft-s-reliability-improves-in-pentagon-testing.html "V-22 Osprey Aircraft's Reliability Improves in Pentagon Testing"]. Bloomberg News, 13 January 2012.
An MV-22 landed and refueled on board {{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68|2}} in an evaluation in October 2012.{{cite web |first1=Renee |last1=Candelario |title= MV-22 Osprey Flight Operations Tested Aboard USS Nimitz |url= http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=70031 |work= NNS121008-13 |publisher= USS Nimitz Public Affairs |date= 8 October 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130524120127/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=70031 |archive-date= 24 May 2013 |url-status= dead}} In 2013, cargo handling trials occurred on {{USS|Harry S. Truman|CVN-75|2}}.{{cite web |url=http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3aee72908b-a786-455f-8510-c35b64849f10 |title=Osprey on the Truman, Fishing for COD |last1=Butler |first1=Amy |date=18 April 2013 |work=Aviation Week |publisher=The McGraw-Hill Companies |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520135407/http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3aee72908b-a786-455f-8510-c35b64849f10 |archive-date=20 May 2013}} In October 2015, NAVAIR tested rolling landings and takeoffs on a carrier, preparing for carrier onboard delivery.{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/v-22-testing-could-lead-higher-takeoff-weights |title=V-22 Osprey Testing Could Lead To Higher Takeoff Weights |author=Tony Osborne |date=12 November 2015 |work=Aviation Week |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116175310/http://aviationweek.com/defense/v-22-testing-could-lead-higher-takeoff-weights |archive-date=16 November 2015 |url-status=live}}
=Discussions=
File:CV-22 Osprey - RIAT 2017 (38727361971).jpg
Development was protracted and controversial, partly because of large cost increases,Bryce, Robert. [http://www.texasobserver.org/article.php?aid=1679 "Review of political forces that helped shape V-22 program"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927194024/http://www.texasobserver.org/article.php?aid=1679 |date=27 September 2007}}Texas Observer, 17 June 2004. some of which were caused by a requirement to fold wings and rotors to fit aboard ships.Whittle, Richard. "[https://nypost.com/2015/05/24/the-osprey-half-airplane-half-helicopter-totally-badass/ Half-airplane, half-helicopter, totally badass]" NY Post, 24 May 2015. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150525104748/http://nypost.com/2015/05/24/the-osprey-half-airplane-half-helicopter-totally-badass/ Archived] on 25 May 2015. The development budget was first set at US$2.5 billion in 1986, increasing to a projected US$30 billion in 1988. By 2008, US$27 billion had been spent and another US$27.2 billion was required for planned production numbers. Between 2008 and 2011, the V-22's estimated lifetime cost grew by 61%, mostly for maintenance and support.Capaccio, Tony. [http://www.star-telegram.com/2011/11/29/3559148/lifetime-cost-of-v-22s-rose-61.html "Lifetime cost of V-22s rose 61% in three years"]. {{dead link|date=March 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} Bloomberg News, 29 November 2011.
{{Blockquote||text=Its [The V-22's] production costs are considerably greater than for helicopters with equivalent capability{{snd}}specifically, about twice as great as for the CH-53E, which has a greater payload and an ability to carry heavy equipment the V-22 cannot ... an Osprey unit would cost around $60 million to produce, and $35 million for the helicopter equivalent.O'Hanlon 2002, p. 119.|author=Michael E. O'Hanlon, 2002}}
In 2001, Lieutenant Colonel Odin Leberman, commander of the V-22 squadron at Marine Corps Air Station New River, was relieved of duty after allegations that he instructed his unit to falsify maintenance records to make it appear more reliable.Ricks, Thomas E. [https://web.archive.org/web/20121105114126/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/washingtonpost/access/66970987.html?dids=66970987:66970987&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jan+19,+2001&author=Thomas+E.+Ricks&pub=The+Washington+Post&desc=Marines+Fire+Commander+Of+Ospreys%3B+Alleged+Falsification+Of+Data+Investigated&pqatl=google "Marines Fire Commander Of Ospreys; Alleged Falsification Of Data Investigated"]. The Washington Post, 19 January 2001. Three officers were implicated for their roles in the falsification scandal.
File:V-22 Osprey wing rotated.jpg
In October 2007, a Time magazine article condemned the V-22 as unsafe, overpriced, and inadequate; the USMC responded that the article's data was partly obsolete, inaccurate, and held high expectations for any new field of aircraft.Hoellwarth, John. [http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2007/10/marine_osprey_071014/ "Leaders, experts slam Time article on Osprey"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071210130333/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2007/10/marine_osprey_071014/ |date=10 December 2007}} Marine Corps Times (Army Times Publishing Company), 16 October 2007. In 2011, the controversial defense industry-supported Lexington Institute{{cite web|author1=DiMascio, Jen|title=Playing defense – but at a price?|url=http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1210/46155.html|work=Politico|date=9 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525224040/http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1210/46155.html|archive-date=25 May 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite magazine|author1=Ackerman, Spencer|title=Defense Industry's Favorite Think Tank Daydreams of Obama Defeat|url=https://www.wired.com/2012/04/lexington-obama/|magazine=Wired|date=12 April 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416231844/http://www.wired.com/2012/04/lexington-obama/|archive-date=16 April 2016|url-status=live|author1-link=Spencer Ackerman}}{{cite magazine|author1=Silverstein, Ken|title=Mad men – Introducing the defense industry's pay-to-play ad agency|magazine=Harper's Magazine|date=1 April 2010|author1-link=Ken Silverstein}} reported that the average mishap rate per flight hour over the past 10 years was the lowest of any USMC rotorcraft, approximately half of the average fleet accident rate.[http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/v-22-is-the-safest-most-survivable-rotorcraft-the-marines-have?a=1&c=1171 "V-22 Is The Safest, Most Survivable Rotorcraft The Marines Have"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110303034110/http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/v-22-is-the-safest-most-survivable-rotorcraft-the-marines-have?a=1&c=1171 |date=3 March 2011}} Lexington Institute, February 2011. In 2011, Wired magazine reported that the safety record had excluded ground incidents;Axe, David. [https://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/10/marines-respond-osprey-safety/ "Marines: Actually, Our Tiltrotor Is 'Effective And Reliable' (Never Mind Those Accidents)"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131209023744/http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/10/marines-respond-osprey-safety/ |date=9 December 2013}}Wired, 13 October 2011. the USMC responded that MV-22 reporting used the same standards as other Navy aircraft.[http://www.marines.mil/unit/hqmc/Pages/USMCSTATEMENTINRESPONSETOARTICLEONTHESAFETYRECORDOFTHEMARINEV-22OSPREY.aspx "USMC Statement in Response to Article on the Safety Record of the Marine V-22 Osprey"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120116172050/http://www.marines.mil/unit/hqmc/Pages/USMCSTATEMENTINRESPONSETOARTICLEONTHESAFETYRECORDOFTHEMARINEV-22OSPREY.aspx |date=16 January 2012}} USMC, 13 October 2011.
By 2012, the USMC reported fleetwide readiness rate had risen to 68%;{{cite web|url=http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20130813/NEWS04/308130010/DoD-watchdog-audits-Osprey-readiness|title=Pentagon watchdog to release classified audit on V-22 Osprey|work=Marine Corps Times|access-date=6 April 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130817095918/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20130813/NEWS04/308130010/DoD-watchdog-audits-Osprey-readiness|archive-date=17 August 2013}} however, the DOD's Inspector General later found 167 of 200 reports had "improperly recorded" information.{{cite web |url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-10-25/pentagon-s-inspector-general-finds-v-22-readiness-rates-flawed |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131025231009/http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-10-25/pentagon-s-inspector-general-finds-v-22-readiness-rates-flawed |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 October 2013 |title=Pentagon's Inspector General Finds V-22 Readiness Rates Flawed |last1=Capaccio |first1=Tony |date=25 October 2013 |website=Bloomberg BusinessWeek |publisher=Bloomberg News}} Captain Richard Ulsh blamed errors on incompetence, saying that they were "not malicious" or deliberate.{{cite web |url=http://www.stripes.com/news/us/are-the-marines-faking-the-reliability-record-of-their-79-million-superplane-1.250587 |title=Are the Marines faking the reliability record of their $79 million superplane? |last1=Lamothe |first1=Dan |date=2 November 2013 |work=Foreign Policy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103045618/http://www.stripes.com/news/us/are-the-marines-faking-the-reliability-record-of-their-79-million-superplane-1.250587 |archive-date=3 November 2013 |url-status=dead}} The required mission capable rate was 82%, but the average was 53% from June 2007 to May 2010.Shalal-Esa, Andrea. [https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bell-boeing-v22-international-idUSTRE81P0ND20120226 "U.S. eyes V-22 aircraft sales to Israel, Canada, UAE"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924162523/http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/02/26/us-bell-boeing-v22-international-idUSTRE81P0ND20120226 |date=24 September 2015}}Reuters, 26 February 2012. In 2010, Naval Air Systems Command aimed for an 85% reliability rate by 2018.Reed, John. [https://archive.today/20120919002442/http://www.navytimes.com/news/2010/05/military_osprey_boeing_050510w/ "Boeing to make new multiyear Osprey offer"]. Navy Times, 5 May 2010. From 2009 to 2014, readiness rates rose 25% to the "high 80s", while cost per flight hour had dropped 20% to $9,520 through a rigorous maintenance improvement program that focused on diagnosing problems before failures occur.Hoffman, Michael. "[http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/04/09/osprey-readiness-rates-improved-25-over-5-years/ Osprey Readiness Rates Improved 25% over 5 years] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413124502/http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/04/09/osprey-readiness-rates-improved-25-over-5-years/ |date=2014-04-13}}" DODbuzz, 9 April 2014. {{as of|2015}}, although the V-22 requires more maintenance and has lower availability (62%) than traditional helicopters, it also has a lower mishap rate. The average cost per flight hour is {{usd|9,156}},Whittle, Richard. "[http://vtol.org/74BFE740-E9BA-11E4-8AB70050568D0042 Osprey Shows Its Mettle] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125033114/https://vtol.org/files/dmfile/VertifliteMJ15-OspreyWhittle1.pdf |date=25 January 2024}}" pp. 23–26. American Helicopter Society / Vertiflite May/June 2015, Vol. 61, No. 3. whereas the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion cost about $20,000 (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=20000|start_year=2007}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) per flight hour in 2007.Whittle, Richard. [http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/commercial/eng/Rotorcraft-Report_7571.html USMC CH-53E Costs Rise With Op Tempo] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502013618/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/commercial/eng/Rotorcraft-Report_7571.html |date=2 May 2014}}Rotor & Wing, Aviation Today, January 2007. Quote: For every hour the Corps flies a −53E, it spends 44 maintenance hours fixing it. Every hour a Super Stallion flies it costs about $20,000. V-22 ownership cost was $83,000 per hour in 2013.Magnuson, Stew. "[http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2015/July/Pages/FutureofTiltRotorAircraftUncertainDespiteV22sSuccesses.aspx Future of Tilt-Rotor Aircraft Uncertain Despite V-22's Successes]" National Defense Industrial Association, July 2015. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150621212900/http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2015/July/Pages/FutureofTiltRotorAircraftUncertainDespiteV22sSuccesses.aspx Archive] In 2022, the Pentagon evaluated its cost per flight hour at $23,941.{{Cite web|url=https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/documents/rates/fy2022/2022_b_c.pdf|title=Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Department of Defense (DoD) Fixed Wing and Helicopter Reimbursement Rates|access-date=29 August 2023|archive-date=12 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112120521/https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/documents/rates/fy2022/2022_b_c.pdf|url-status=live}}
While technically capable of autorotation if both engines fail in helicopter mode, a safe landing is difficult.{{r|v22fly}} In 2005, a director of the Pentagon's testing office stated that in a loss of power while hovering below {{convert|1600|ft|m|sigfig=2}}, emergency landings "are not likely to be survivable." V-22 pilot Captain Justin "Moon" McKinney stated that: "We can turn it into a plane and glide it down, just like a C-130."Thompson, Mark. [http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1665835-1,00.html "V-22 Osprey: A Flying Shame"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081011055732/http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1665835-1,00.html |date=11 October 2008}} Time, 26 September 2007. Retrieved 8 August 2011. A complete loss of power requires both engines to fail, as one engine can power both proprotors via interconnected drive shafts. Though vortex ring state (VRS) contributed to a deadly V-22 accident, flight testing found it to be less susceptible to VRS than conventional helicopters. A GAO report stated that the V-22 is "less forgiving than conventional helicopters" during VRS.Schinasi 2008, p. 16. Several test flights to explore VRS characteristics were canceled.Schinasi 2008, p. 11. The USMC trains pilots in the recognition of and recovery from VRS, and has instituted operational envelope limits and instrumentation to help avoid VRS conditions.Gross, Kevin, Lt. Col. U.S. Marine Corps and Tom Macdonald, MV-22 test pilot and Ray Dagenhart, MV-22 lead government engineer. [http://www.military.com/NewContent/0,13190, NI_Myth_0904,00.html "Dispelling the Myth of the MV-22"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125033111/https://www.military.com/benefits |date=25 January 2024}}. Proceedings: The Naval Institute. September 2004.
=Production=
On 28 September 2005, the Pentagon formally approved full-rate production,{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20091206022925/http://defensetech.org/2005/09/28/osprey-okd/ "Osprey OK'd"]}}. Defense Tech, 28 September 2005. increasing from 11 V-22s per year to between 24 and 48 per year by 2012. Of the 458 total planned, 360 are for the USMC, 50 for the USAF, and 48 for the Navy at an average cost of $110 million per aircraft, including development costs. The V-22 had an incremental flyaway cost of $67 million per aircraft in 2008,[https://web.archive.org/web/20080227122030/http://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080204-081.pdf "FY 2009 Budget Estimates"]. p. 133. United States Air Force, February 2008. The Navy had hoped to shave about $10 million off that cost via a five-year production contract in 2013.{{cite web |last=Christie |first=Rebecca |url=http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=177 |title=DJ US Navy Expects Foreign Interest In V-22 To Ramp Up Next Year |work=Naval Air Systems Command, United States Navy |agency=Dow Jones Newswires |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201231351/http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=177 |archive-date=1 December 2016 |date=31 May 2007}} Each CV-22 cost $73 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=73000000|start_year=2014}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) in the FY 2014 budget.{{cite web |title=War Funding Climbs in Omnibus Bill for First Time Since 2010 |url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140114/DEFREG02/301140032/War-Funding-Climbs-Omnibus-Bill-First-Time-Since-2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140401071506/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140114/DEFREG02/301140032/War-Funding-Climbs-Omnibus-Bill-First-Time-Since-2010 |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 April 2014 |work=Defense News |author=John T. Bennett |date=14 January 2014}}
On 15 April 2010, the Naval Air Systems Command awarded Bell Boeing a $42.1 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=42100000|start_year=2010}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) contract to design an integrated processor in response to avionics obsolescence and add new network capabilities.Keller, John. [http://www.militaryaerospace.com/index/display/article-display/373712/articles/military-aerospace-electronics/executive-watch-2/2010/04/bell-boeing-to-design-new-integrated-avionics-processor-for-v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft.html "Bell-Boeing to design new integrated avionics processor for V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714094702/http://www.militaryaerospace.com/index/display/article-display/373712/articles/military-aerospace-electronics/executive-watch-2/2010/04/bell-boeing-to-design-new-integrated-avionics-processor-for-v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft.html |date=14 July 2011}}Militaryearospace.com, 18 April 2010. By 2014, Raytheon began providing an avionics upgrade that includes situational awareness and blue force tracking.[http://www.defenseworld.net/go/defensenews.jsp?id=4691 "Raytheon wins $250 million contract for V-22 aircraft avionics from US"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723091619/http://www.defenseworld.net/go/defensenews.jsp?id=4691 |date=23 July 2011}} defenseworld.net. Retrieved: 30 December 2010. In 2009, a contract for Block C upgrades was awarded to Bell Boeing.[https://web.archive.org/web/20100301224951/http://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4168 "DOD Contracts"]. [https://www.defense.gov/contracts/contract.aspx?contractid=4168] United States Department of Defense. 24 November 2009. In February 2012, the USMC received the first V-22C, featuring a new radar, additional mission management and electronic warfare equipment.McHale, John. [http://mil-embedded.com/news/block-c-v-22-osprey-with-new-radar-cockpit-displays-and-electronic-warfare-features-delivered-to-marines/ "Block C V-22 Osprey with new radar, cockpit displays, and electronic warfare features delivered to Marines"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130522192505/http://mil-embedded.com/news/block-c-v-22-osprey-with-new-radar-cockpit-displays-and-electronic-warfare-features-delivered-to-marines/ |date=22 May 2013}}. Military Embedded Systems, 15 February 2012. In 2015, options for upgrading all aircraft to the V-22C standard were examined.{{cite web|url=http://breakingdefense.com/2015/08/ltg-davis-talks-to-boeing-on-upgrading-half-of-marine-v-22-fleet/|title=LTG Davis Talks To Boeing On Upgrading Half Of Marine V-22 Fleet|work=Breaking Defense|date=13 August 2015|access-date=31 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151023080945/http://breakingdefense.com/2015/08/ltg-davis-talks-to-boeing-on-upgrading-half-of-marine-v-22-fleet/|archive-date=23 October 2015|url-status=live}}
File:JGSDF V-22 Osprey landing on the JS Ise(DDH-182)-03.jpg
On 12 June 2013, the U.S. DoD awarded a $4.9 billion contract for 99 V-22s in production Lots 17 and 18, including 92 MV-22s for the USMC, for completion in September 2019.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-award-v-22-multi-year-contract-387024/ Bell-Boeing award V-22 multi-year contract] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006234554/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-award-v-22-multi-year-contract-387024/ |date=6 October 2013}} – Flightglobal.com, 12 June 2013 A provision gives NAVAIR the option to order 23 more Ospreys.[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/us-military-orders-additional-22-v-22-ospreys/ US military orders additional V-22 Ospreys] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201222930/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/us-military-orders-additional-22-v-22-ospreys/ |date=1 February 2014}} – Shephardmedia.com, 13 June 2013 As of June 2013, the combined value of all contracts placed totaled $6.5 billion.[http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_06_13_2013_p0-588065.xml Pentagon Signs Multiyear V-22 Deal] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203074941/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fawx_06_13_2013_p0-588065.xml |date=3 February 2014}} – Aviationweek.com, 13 June 2013 In 2013, Bell laid off production staff following the US's order being cut to about half of the planned number.Berard, Yamil. "[https://archive.today/20140517165952/http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/05/05/5793642/bell-to-lay-off-325-workers-as.html?rh=1 Bell to lay off 325 workers as V-22 orders decline]". Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 May 2014. Retrieved 8 May 2014.{{cite news |url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/05/05/5793642/bell-to-lay-off-325-workers-as.html |title=Bell to lay off 325 workers as V-22 orders decline |last1=Berard |first1=Yamil |date=5 May 2014 |website=Fort Worth Star-Telegram |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140702060207/http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/05/05/5793642/bell-to-lay-off-325-workers-as.html |archive-date=2 July 2014 |url-status=dead}} Production rate went from 40 in 2012 to 22 planned for 2015.{{cite news |first=Mark |last=Huber |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aerospace/2015-02-25/bells-garrison-new-programs-full-speed |title=New Programs at Full Speed |work=Aviation International News |date=25 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302151655/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aerospace/2015-02-25/bells-garrison-new-programs-full-speed |archive-date=2 March 2015 |url-status=live}} Manufacturing robots have replaced older automated machines for increased accuracy and efficiency; large parts are held in place by suction cups and measured electronically.Laird, Robbin. "[http://www.manufacturingnews.com/news/2015/V-22-Osprey-0827152.html A Hybrid Manufacturer For A Hybrid Airplane]" Manufacturing & Technology News, 27 August 2015 Volume 22, No. 10. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150831071650/http://www.manufacturingnews.com/news/2015/V-22-Osprey-0827152.html Archive]Laird, Robbin. "[http://www.sldinfo.com/the-maturation-of-the-osprey-a-perspective-from-visiting-the-boeing-plant-near-philadelphia/ A Perspective from Visiting the Boeing Plant Near Philadelphia]" SLD, 28 May 2015. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150831074010/http://www.sldinfo.com/the-maturation-of-the-osprey-a-perspective-from-visiting-the-boeing-plant-near-philadelphia/ Archive]
In March 2014, Air Force Special Operations Command issued a Combat Mission Need Statement for armor to protect V-22 passengers. NAVAIR worked with a Florida-based composite armor company and the Army Aviation Development Directorate to develop and deliver the advanced ballistic stopping system (ABSS) by October 2014. Costing $270,000, the ABSS consists of 66 plates fitting along interior bulkheads and deck, adding {{convert|800|lb|kg|abbr=on}} to the aircraft's weight, affecting payload and range. The ABSS can be installed or removed when needed in hours and partially assembled in pieces for partial protection of specific areas. As of May 2015, 16 kits had been delivered to the USAF.[https://archive.today/20140920011939/http://www.airforcetimes.com/article/20140917/NEWS04/309170042/Air-Force-special-ops-looks-add-armor-firepower-Ospreys Air Force special ops looks to add armor, firepower to Ospreys] – Air Force Times, 17 September 2014Whittle, Richard. "[http://breakingdefense.com/2015/05/afsoc-ospreys-armor-up-after-painful-lessons-learned-in-south-sudan/ AFSOC Ospreys Armor Up After Painful Lessons Learned In South Sudan]" Breaking Defense, 15 May 2015. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150516002422/http://breakingdefense.com/2015/05/afsoc-ospreys-armor-up-after-painful-lessons-learned-in-south-sudan/ Archive]
In 2015, Bell Boeing set up the V-22 Readiness Operations Center at Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, to gather information from each aircraft to improve fleet performance in a similar manner as the F-35's Autonomic Logistics Information System.{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/shownews/aliss-children-networked-prognostics-v-22 |title=ALIS's Children: Networked Prognostics For The V-22 |last1=Batey |first1=Angus |date=12 July 2016 |website=Aviation Week & Space Technology |publisher=Penton |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160713192757/http://aviationweek.com/shownews/aliss-children-networked-prognostics-v-22 |archive-date=13 July 2016 |url-status=live}}
Two programs, the V-22 Cockpit Technology Replacement (VeCToR) and Renewed V-22 Aircraft Modernization Program (ReVAMP), are being studied to upgrade the aircraft and extend its life. VeCToR would upgrade the cockpit with more modern electronics in the 2030s and 40s, and ReVAMP would be a fuselage life extension program to extend the V-22's service beyond the 2060s.{{Cite web |last=Eckstein |first=Megan |date=1 May 2024 |title=V-22 Osprey could see second life, with new drive system, wings in 2050s |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/05/01/v-22-osprey-could-see-second-life-with-new-drive-system-wings-in-2050s/ |access-date=11 September 2024 |website=Defense News |language=en}}
Design
=Overview=
The Osprey is the world's first production tiltrotor aircraft,{{Cite web|url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a26242129/v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-bell-boeing/|title=The V-22 Osprey: How America's Controversial Tiltrotor Plane Works|first=Kyle|last=Mizokami|date=8 February 2019|website=Popular Mechanics|access-date=26 May 2021|archive-date=26 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526050053/https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a26242129/v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-bell-boeing/|url-status=live}} with one three-bladed proprotor, turboshaft engine, and transmission nacelle mounted on each wingtip.Croft, John. [http://www.airspacemag.com/military-aviation/osprey.html "Tilters"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080725043315/http://www.airspacemag.com/military-aviation/osprey.html |date=25 July 2008}} [http://www.airspacemag.com/military-aviation/tilters-21162862/?all Alternate link] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150506021317/http://www.airspacemag.com/military-aviation/tilters-21162862/?all |date=6 May 2015}}Air & Space/Smithsonian, 1 September 2007. Retrieved 6 May 2015. It is classified as a powered lift aircraft by the Federal Aviation Administration.[https://web.archive.org/web/19990220043218/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/1997/news_release_970821a.html Osprey Pilots Receive First FAA Powered Lift Ratings] (1999 Archive from Boeing) For takeoff and landing, it typically operates as a helicopter with the nacelles vertical and rotors horizontal. Once airborne, the nacelles rotate forward 90° in as little as 12 seconds for horizontal flight, converting the V-22 to a more fuel-efficient, higher-speed aircraft, like a turboprop aircraft.{{Cite journal |last=Mahaffey |first=Jay Douglas |year=1991 |title=The V-22 tilt rotor, a comparison with existing Coast Guard aircraft |url=https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/36721467.pdf |journal=Institutional Archive of the Naval Postgraduate School |access-date=17 May 2021 |archive-date=17 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517132256/https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/36721467.pdf |url-status=live}} STOL rolling-takeoff and landing capability is achieved by having the nacelles tilted forward up to 45°.[http://www.bellhelicopter.com/MungoBlobs/126/268/V-22%20Guidebook%202013_update_PREVIEW_LR2.pdf "V-22 Osprey Guidebook, 2013/2014"]. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020133122/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/MungoBlobs/126/268/V-22%20Guidebook%202013_update_PREVIEW_LR2.pdf |date=20 October 2014}} Bell-Boeing, 2013. Retrieved 6 February 2014. [https://web.archive.org/web/20141020133122/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/MungoBlobs/126/268/V-22%20Guidebook%202013_update_PREVIEW_LR2.pdf Archived] in 2014.Chavanne, Bettina H. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/awst/2010/01/11/AW_01_11_2010_p44-193636.xml&headline=USMC%20V-22%20Osprey%20Finds%20Groove%20In%20Afghanistan "USMC V-22 Osprey Finds Groove In Afghanistan"]. {{dead link|date=February 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} Aviation Week, 12 January 2010. Retrieved 23 June 2010. Other orientations are possible.{{r|foldisk}} Pilots describe the V-22 in airplane mode as comparable to the C-130 in feel and speed.{{r|adde20210414}} It has a ferry range of over 2,100 nmi. Its operational range is 1,100 nmi.[http://en.airforceworld.com/a/20150817/695_2.html "V-22 Osprey range and ceiling"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304071523/http://en.airforceworld.com/a/20150817/695_2.html |date=4 March 2016}}. AirForceWorld.com, 6 October 2015.
Composite materials make up 43% of the airframe, and the proprotor blades also use composites. For storage, the V-22's rotors fold in 90 seconds and its wing rotates to align, front-to-back, with the fuselage.Currie, Major Tom P. Jr., USAF. [https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/99-033.pdf "A Research Report Submitted to the Faculty, In Partial Fulfillment of the Graduation Requirements: The CV-22 'Osprey' and the Impact on Air Force Combat Search and Rescue"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306213726/https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/docs/99-033.pdf |date=6 March 2016}} Air Command and Staff College, April 1999. Because of the requirement for folding rotors, their {{convert|38|ft|m|adj=on}} diameter is {{convert|5|ft|m}} less than would be optimal for an aircraft of this size to conduct vertical takeoff, resulting in high disk loading.Whittle, Richard. "[http://defense.aol.com/2012/09/05/flying-the-osprey-is-not-dangerous-just-different-veteran-pilo/ Flying The Osprey Is Not Dangerous, Just Different: Veteran Pilots] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120914073208/http://defense.aol.com/2012/09/05/flying-the-osprey-is-not-dangerous-just-different-veteran-pilo|date=2012-09-14}}" defense.aol.com, 5 September 2012. Retrieved 16 September 2012. [https://web.archive.org/web/20131003121815/http://breakingdefense.com/2012/09/05/flying-the-osprey-is-not-dangerous-just-different-veteran-pilo/ Archived] on 3 October 2013. Most missions use fixed wing flight 75% or more of the time, reducing wear and tear and operational costs. This fixed wing flight is higher than typical helicopter missions allowing longer range line-of-sight communications for improved command and control.
Exhaust heat from the V-22's engines can potentially damage ships' flight decks and coatings. NAVAIR devised a temporary fix of portable heat shields placed under the engines and determined that a long-term solution would require redesigning decks with heat resistant coating, passive thermal barriers, and ship structure changes. Similar changes are required for F-35B operations.{{cite web |url=http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=213 |title=Tenacious Efforts to Accomplish Another V-22 Milestone |work=U.S. Navy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201222542/http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=213 |archive-date=1 December 2016 |date=17 June 2009 |access-date=19 June 2019}} In 2009, DARPA requested solutions for installing robust flight deck cooling.Lazarus, Aaron. [https://www.fbo.gov/utils/view?id=2edeadbf3996eebd7c51240c4db16f67 DARPA-BAA 10-10, Thermal Management System (TMS)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180116004440/https://www.fbo.gov/utils/view?id=2edeadbf3996eebd7c51240c4db16f67 |date=16 January 2018}} DARPA, 16 November 2009. Retrieved 18 March 2012. Quote: "MV-22 Osprey has resulted in ship flight deck buckling that has been attributed to the excessive heat impact from engine exhaust plumes. Navy studies have indicated that repeated deck buckling will likely cause deck failure before planned ship life." A heat-resistant anti-skid metal spray named Thermion has been tested on USS Wasp.{{cite news |first=Amy |last=Butler |url=http://aviationweek.com/blog/f-35b-dt-2-update-few-hours-uss-wasp |title=F-35B DT 2 Update: A few hours on the USS Wasp |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |date=5 September 2013 |access-date=4 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903051254/http://aviationweek.com/blog/f-35b-dt-2-update-few-hours-uss-wasp |archive-date=3 September 2014 |url-status=live}}
=Propulsion=
The V-22's two Rolls-Royce AE 1107C engines are connected by drive shafts to a common central gearbox so that one engine can power both proprotors if an engine failure occurs.Norton 2004, pp. 98–99. Either engine can power both proprotors through the wing driveshaft. However, the V-22 is generally not capable of hovering on one engine.Whittle, Richard. "[http://breakingdefense.com/2015/07/fatal-crash-prompts-marines-to-change-osprey-flight-rules/ Fatal Crash Prompts Marines To Change Osprey Flight Rules] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150719000019/http://breakingdefense.com/2015/07/fatal-crash-prompts-marines-to-change-osprey-flight-rules/ |date=2015-07-19}}". Breaking Defense, 16 July 2015. If a proprotor gearbox fails, that proprotor cannot be feathered, and both engines must be stopped before an emergency landing. The autorotation characteristics are poor because of the rotors' low inertia. The AE 1107C engine has a two-shaft axial design with a 14-stage compressor, an effusion-cooled annular combustor, a two-stage gas generator turbine, and two-stage power turbine.{{cite web |last=Welt |first=Flying |date=14 May 2023 |title=Bell Boeing V 22 Osprey, the World's First Production Military Tiltrotor Aircraft |url=https://www.flyingwelt.com/2023/05/bell-boeing-v-22-osprey-the-worlds-first-production-military-tiltrotor-aircraft/ |access-date=24 November 2023 |website=Flying Welt |language=en-US |archive-date=24 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124051636/https://www.flyingwelt.com/2023/05/bell-boeing-v-22-osprey-the-worlds-first-production-military-tiltrotor-aircraft/ |url-status=live}}
In September 2013, Rolls-Royce announced that it had increased the AE-1107C engine's power by 17% via the adoption of a new Block 3 turbine, increased fuel valve flow capacity, and software updates; it should also improve reliability in high-altitude, high-heat conditions and boost maximum payload limitations from {{convert|6000|to|8000|ft|m|abbr=on}}. A Block 4 upgrade is reportedly being examined, which may increase power by up to 26%, producing close to {{convert|10000|shp|kW|abbr=on}}, and improve fuel consumption.[https://archive.today/20130920190720/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130916/DEFREG02/309160009/Rolls-Royce-Boosts-Power-V-22-Engines "Rolls-Royce Boosts Power for V-22 Engines"]. Defense News, 16 September 2013.
In August 2014, the U.S. military issued a request for information for a potential drop-in replacement for the AE-1107C engines. Submissions must have a power rating of no less than {{convert|6100|shp|kW|abbr=on}} at 15,000 rpm, operate at up to {{convert|25000|ft|m|abbr=on}} at up to {{convert|130|F|C|abbr=off}}, and fit into the existing wing nacelles with minimal structural or external modifications.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-military-seeking-replacement-v-22-engines-403177/ US military seeking replacement V-22 engines] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140907171441/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-military-seeking-replacement-v-22-engines-403177/ |date=7 September 2014}} – Flightglobal.com, 29 August 2014 In September 2014, the U.S. Navy, who already purchase engines separately to airframes, was reportedly considering an alternative engine supplier to reduce costs.Wall, Robert, "US mulls engine options for its Osprey aircraft", The Wall Street Journal, 2 September 2014, p.B3 The General Electric GE38 is one option, giving commonality with the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-navy-developing-early-plans-for-v-22-mid-life-upgrade-411212/ "US Navy developing early plans for V-22 mid-life upgrade"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150416231330/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-navy-developing-early-plans-for-v-22-mid-life-upgrade-411212/ |date=16 April 2015}} – Flightglobal.com, 15 April 2015.
The V-22 has a maximum rotor downwash speed of over {{convert|80|kn|mph kph}}, more than the {{convert|64|kn|mph kph|adj=on}} lower limit of a hurricane.John Gordon IV et al. [https://www.rand.org/pubs/documented_briefings/2005/RAND_DB472.pdf Assessment of Navy Heavy-Lift Aircraft Options] p39. RAND Corporation, 2005. Retrieved 18 March 2012. {{ISBN|0-8330-3791-9}}. [https://web.archive.org/web/20110927172859/https://www.rand.org/pubs/documented_briefings/2005/RAND_DB472.pdf Archived] in 2011.[https://web.archive.org/web/20080226215213/http://www.srh.noaa.gov/fwd/wcm/hurric.pdf "Hurricanes... Unleashing Nature's Fury: A Preparedness Guide"]. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, September 2006. The rotorwash usually prevents the starboard door's usage in hover; the rear ramp is used for rappelling and hoisting instead.McKinney, Mike. [http://www.verticalmag.com/features/features_article/20112-flying-the-v-22.html "Flying the V-22"] Vertical, 28 March 2012. [https://web.archive.org/web/20140430000553/http://www.verticalmag.com/features/features_article/20112-flying-the-v-22.html Archived] on 30 April 2014.Waters, USMC Cpl. Lana D. [https://web.archive.org/web/20041120010423/http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=18900 V-22 Osprey Fast rope 1] USMC, 6 November 2004. [https://web.archive.org/web/20050321095806/http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=18900 Archived] on 21 March 2005. The V-22 loses 10% of its vertical lift over a tiltwing design when operating in helicopter mode because of the wings' airflow resistance, while the tiltrotor design has better short takeoff and landing performance.Trimble, Stephen. [http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2009/06/boeing-looks-ahead-to-a-v-23-o.html "Boeing looks ahead to a 'V-23' Osprey"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090625022409/http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2009/06/boeing-looks-ahead-to-a-v-23-o.html |date=25 June 2009}} Flight Global, 22 June 2009. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150112022437/http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2009/06/boeing-looks-ahead-to-a-v-23-o/ Archived] on 12 January 2015. V-22s must keep at least {{convert|25|ft|m|abbr=on}} of vertical separation between each other to avoid each other's rotor wake, which causes turbulence and potentially control loss. The extreme rotor downwash of the V-22 has caused incidents when rappelling or fast roping from the aircraft, including a soldier being blown 3 meters away from his intended dismount point by the force of the downwash.{{Cite web |last=|date=1996-03-13 |title=Concerns about V-22 downwash crop |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/concerns-about-v-22-downwash-crop/10171.article |access-date=2024-11-03 |website=Flight Global |language=en}} The downwash is strong enough to destroy unstrengthened helipads and can create flying debris in the landing zone that can injure bystanders or potentially damage the aircraft; an incident involving a Marine Corps Osprey in 2010 resulted in 10 bystanders suffering downwash-related injuries.{{Cite web |last=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=2021-04-22 |title=Watch This CV-22 Osprey's Rotor Downwash Absolutely Demolish A Hospital's Helipad |url=https://www.twz.com/40289/watch-this-cv-22-ospreys-rotor-downwash-absolutely-demolish-a-hospitals-helipad |access-date=2024-11-03 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}"Marine aircraft blows tree branches, injures 10 on ground during NYC landing for Fleet Week" May 31, 2010 Fox News https://www.foxnews.com/us/marine-aircraft-blows-tree-branches-injures-10-on-ground-during-nyc-landing-for-fleet-week
=Avionics=
File:Cockpit of V-22 Osprey.jpg ]]
The V-22 is equipped with a glass cockpit, which incorporates four multi-function displays (MFDs, compatible with night-vision goggles) and one shared central display unit, to display various images including: digimaps, imagery from the Turreted forward-looking infrared system{{cite web|url=http://www.boeing.com/ospreynews/2011/issue_01/final_8jun2010_179638.pdf|title=Boeing: V-22 Osprey|publisher=Boeing|access-date=15 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131127065001/http://www.boeing.com/ospreynews/2011/issue_01/final_8jun2010_179638.pdf|archive-date=27 November 2013|url-status=live}} primary flight instruments, navigation (TACAN, VOR, ILS, GPS, INS), and system status. The flight director panel of the cockpit management system allows for fully coupled (autopilot) functions that take the aircraft from forward flight into a {{convert|50|ft|m|abbr=on}} hover with no pilot interaction other than programming the system.Ringenbach, Daniel P. and Scott Brick. [http://pdf.aiaa.org/preview/1995/PV1995_3385.pdf "Hardware-in-the-loop testing for development and integration of the V-22 autopilot system, pp. 28–36"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070628053940/http://pdf.aiaa.org/preview/1995/PV1995_3385.pdf |date=28 June 2007}} Technical Papers (A95-39235 10–01): AIAA Flight Simulation Technologies Conference Technical Papers, Baltimore, MD, 3 August 2008. The fuselage is not pressurized, and personnel must wear on-board oxygen masks above 10,000 feet.
File:USAF Boeing V-22 cockpit.jpg
The V-22 has triple-redundant fly-by-wire flight control systems; these have computerized damage control to automatically isolate damaged areas.Landis, Kenneth H., et al. [https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00207179408923078?journalCode=tcon20 "Advanced flight control technology achievements at Boeing Helicopters"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415203442/https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00207179408923078?journalCode=tcon20 |date=15 April 2021}}. International Journal of Control, Volume 59, Issue 1, 1994, pp. 263–290.[http://www.sldinfo.com/an-afghan-report-the-osprey-returns-from-afghanistan-2012/ "An Afghan Report: The Osprey Returns from Afghanistan, 2012"]. SLD, 13 September 2012. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150111234044/http://www.sldinfo.com/an-afghan-report-the-osprey-returns-from-afghanistan-2012/ Archived] on 11 January 2015. With the nacelles pointing straight up in conversion mode at 90° the flight computers command it to fly like a helicopter, cyclic forces being applied to a conventional swashplate at the rotor hub. With the nacelles in airplane mode (0°) the flaperons, rudder, and elevator fly similar to an airplane. This is a gradual transition, occurring over the nacelles' rotation range; the lower the nacelles, the greater effect of the airplane-mode control surfaces.Norton 2004, pp. 6–9, 95–96. The nacelles can rotate past vertical to 97.5° for rearward flight.Markman and Holder 2000, p. 58.Norton 2004, p. 97. The V-22 can use the "80 Jump" orientation with the nacelles at 80° for takeoff to quickly achieve high altitude and speed.{{r|foldisk}} The controls automate to the extent that it can hover in low wind without hands on the controls.{{r|foldisk}}{{r|v22fly}}
New USMC V-22 pilots learn to fly helicopter and multiengine fixed-wing aircraft before the tiltrotor.{{Cite web |last=Freedberg |first=Sydney J. Jr. |date=30 April 2021 |title=FVL: Don't Pick The Tiltrotor, V-22 Test Pilot Tells Army |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2021/04/fvl-dont-pick-the-tiltrotor-v-22-test-pilot-tells-army/ |access-date=3 May 2021 |website=Breaking Defense |archive-date=3 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210503082258/https://breakingdefense.com/2021/04/fvl-dont-pick-the-tiltrotor-v-22-test-pilot-tells-army/ |url-status=live}} Some V-22 pilots believe that former fixed-wing pilots may be preferable over helicopter users, as they are not trained to constantly adjust the controls in hover. Others say that experience with helicopters' hovering and precision is most important.{{r|foldisk}}{{r|v22fly}} {{as of|2021|04}} the US military does not track whether fixed-wing or helicopter pilots transition more easily to the V-22, according to USMC Colonel Matthew Kelly, V-22 project manager. He said that fixed-wing pilots are more experienced at instrument flying, while helicopter pilots are more experienced at scanning outside when the aircraft is moving slowly.{{Cite magazine |last=Adde |first=Nick |date=14 April 2021 |title=V-22 Upgrades in Works as Aircraft Passes Milestones |url=https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2021/4/14/v-22-upgrades-in-works-as-aircraft-passes-milestones |magazine=National Defense |access-date=22 April 2021 |archive-date=23 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210423010108/https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2021/4/14/v-22-upgrades-in-works-as-aircraft-passes-milestones |url-status=live}}
=Armament=
File:V-22 M240 machine gun.jpg mounted on V-22 loading ramp in Iraq, 2007 |alt= M240 machine gun mounted on V-22 loading ramp with a view of Iraq landscape with the aircraft in flight]]
The V-22 can be armed with one 7.62×51mm NATO (.308 in caliber) M240 machine gun or .50 in caliber (12.7 mm) M2 machine gun on the rear loading ramp. A 12.7 mm (.50 in) GAU-19 three-barrel Gatling gun mounted below the nose was studied.[https://web.archive.org/web/20030312152840/http://www.dtic.mil/ndia/2002gun/depasqual.pdf "Defensive Armament for the V-22 Selection, Integration, and Development"]. Bell Helicopter and General Dynamics. Retrieved: 30 December 2010. BAE Systems developed a belly-mounted, remotely operated gun turret system,[http://www.baesystems.com/Newsroom/NewsReleases/autoGen_10792205149.html "BAE Systems Launches New V-22 Defensive Weapon System, Begins On-The-Move Testing"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118180645/https://www.baesystems.com/Newsroom/NewsReleases/autoGen_10792205149.html |date=18 November 2018}} BAE Systems, 2 October 2007. the Interim Defense Weapon System (IDWS);McCullough, Amy. "Ospreys, with boost in firepower, enter Afghanistan". Marine Corps Times, 7 December 2009, p. 24. it is remotely operated by a gunner, targets are acquired via a separate pod using color television and forward looking infrared imagery.Whittle, Richard. [http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/military/attack/BAE-Remote-Guardians-Join-Osprey-Fleet_65220.html "BAE Remote Guardians Join Osprey Fleet"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110622010137/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/military/attack/BAE-Remote-Guardians-Join-Osprey-Fleet_65220.html |date=22 June 2011}} Rotor & Wing, 1 January 2010. The IDWS was installed on half of the V-22s deployed to Afghanistan in 2009; it found limited use because of its {{convert|800|lb|kg|abbr=on}} weight and restrictive rules of engagement.Lamothe, Dan. [http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/06/marine_belly_gun_062810w/ "Ospreys leave new belly gun in the dust"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108023530/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/06/marine_belly_gun_062810w |date=8 January 2012}} Marine Corps Times, 28 June 2010.
There were 32 IDWSs available to the USMC in June 2012; V-22s often flew without it as the added weight reduced cargo capacity. The V-22's speed allows it to outrun conventional support helicopters, thus a self-defense capability was required on long-range independent operations. The infrared gun camera proved useful for reconnaissance and surveillance. Other weapons were studied to provide all-quadrant fire, including nose guns, door guns, and non-lethal countermeasures to work with the current ramp-mounted machine gun and the IDWS.[http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20120213/NEWS/202130313/Corps-seeks-better-weaponry-Ospreys "Corps seeks better weaponry on Ospreys"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140102193754/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20120213/NEWS/202130313/Corps-seeks-better-weaponry-Ospreys |date=2 January 2014}}. Marine Corps Times, 13 February 2012.
In 2014, the USMC studied new weapons with "all-axis, stand-off, and precision capabilities", akin to the AGM-114 Hellfire, AGM-176 Griffin, Joint Air-to-Ground Missile, and GBU-53/B SDB II.[http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/military/tech/2014/11/23/armed-osprey-mv22b-weapons-marine-corps-aviation-plan/19325051/ Corps' aviation plan calls for armed Ospreys] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141218113444/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/story/military/tech/2014/11/23/armed-osprey-mv22b-weapons-marine-corps-aviation-plan/19325051/ |date=18 December 2014}} – Marine Corps Times, 23 November 2014 In November 2014, Bell Boeing conducted self-funded weapons tests, equipping a V-22 with a pylon on the front fuselage and replacing the AN/AAQ-27A EO camera with an L-3 Wescam MX-15 sensor/laser designator. 26 unguided Hydra 70 rockets, two guided APKWS rockets, and two Griffin B missiles were fired over five flights. The USMC and USAF sought a traversable nose-mounted weapon connected to a helmet-mounted sight; recoil complicated integrating a forward-facing gun.[http://aviationweek.com/defense/osprey-fires-guided-rockets-and-missiles-new-trials Osprey Fires Guided Rockets And Missiles In New Trials] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212205057/http://aviationweek.com/defense/osprey-fires-guided-rockets-and-missiles-new-trials |date=12 February 2015}} – Aviationweek.com, 8 December 2014 A pylon could carry {{convert|300|lb|kg|abbr=on}} of munitions.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/v-22-demonstrates-forward-firing-missile-capability-407171/ V-22 demonstrates forward-firing missile capability] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141227062731/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/v-22-demonstrates-forward-firing-missile-capability-407171/ |date=27 December 2014}} – Flightglobal.com, 23 December 2014 However, by 2019, the USMC opted for IDWS upgrades over adopting new weapons.[https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2019/05/14/the-corps-is-working-on-an-advanced-reconnaissance-drone-that-will-be-launched-out-the-back-of-the-mv-22-osprey/ The Corps is working on an advanced reconnaissance drone that will be launched out the back of the MV-22 Osprey] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531100740/https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2019/05/14/the-corps-is-working-on-an-advanced-reconnaissance-drone-that-will-be-launched-out-the-back-of-the-mv-22-osprey/ |date=31 May 2019}}. Marine Corps Times. 14 May 2019.
=Refueling capability=
File:CV-22 Osprey (29429078350).jpg
Boeing is developing a roll-on/roll-off aerial refueling kit, which would give the V-22 the ability to refuel other aircraft. Having an aerial refueling capability that can be based on Wasp-class amphibious assault ships would increase the F-35B's strike power, removing reliance on refueling assets solely based on large Nimitz-class aircraft carriers or land bases. The roll-on/roll-off kit can also be applicable to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) functions.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-developing-osprey-aerial-refuelling-kit-384446/ Boeing developing Osprey aerial refueling kit] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825035459/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-developing-osprey-aerial-refuelling-kit-384446/ |date=25 August 2013}} Flightglobal.com, 10 April 2013 Boeing funded a non-functional demonstration on a VMX-22 aircraft; a prototype kit was successfully tested with an F/A-18 on 5 September 2013.{{Cite web |url= http://boeing.mediaroom.com/Bell-Boeing-V-22-Osprey-Deploys-Refueling-Equipment-in-Flight-Test |title= Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey Deploys Refueling Equipment in Flight Test |date= 5 September 2013 |publisher=Boeing |access-date= 4 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150410002215/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/Bell-Boeing-V-22-Osprey-Deploys-Refueling-Equipment-in-Flight-Test |archive-date= 10 April 2015 |url-status= live}}
File:USAF CV-22B Osprey 11-0058 and MC-130J Hercules 08-6205 RIAT 2023 01.jpg
The high-speed version of the hose/drogue refueling system can be deployed at {{convert|185|knot|mph km/h}} and function at up to {{convert|250|knot|mph km/h}}. A mix of tanks and a roll-on/roll-off bladder house up to {{convert|12000|lb|kg|abbr=on}} of fuel. The ramp must open to extend the hose, then raised once extended. It can refuel rotorcraft, needing a separate drogue used specifically by helicopters and a converted nacelle.[http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckBlogId=Blog:27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3a7b46f4c9-6558-467b-8114-d8e9eaed54a8 "New Pics: MV-22, Hornet in Refueling Tests"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140102200438/http://www.aviationweek.com/Blogs.aspx?plckBlogId=Blog:27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7&plckPostId=Blog%3a27ec4a53-dcc8-42d0-bd3a-01329aef79a7Post%3a7b46f4c9-6558-467b-8114-d8e9eaed54a8 |date=2 January 2014}}. Aviationweek.com, 3 September 2013. Many USMC ground vehicles can run on aviation fuel; a refueling V-22 could service these. In late 2014, it was stated that V-22 tankers could be in use by 2017,[http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/tech/2014/12/28/v-22-osprey-to-become-a-tanker/20804783/ V-22 to get a tanker option] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141229191507/http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/tech/2014/12/28/v-22-osprey-to-become-a-tanker/20804783/ |date=29 December 2014}} – MilitaryTimes, 28 December 2014. but contract delays pushed IOC to late 2019.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-marines-set-2019-target-for-osprey-tanker-fit-433899/ US Marines set 2019 target for Osprey tanker fit] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207155246/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-marines-set-2019-target-for-osprey-tanker-fit-433899/ |date=7 February 2017}} – Flightglobal.com, 7 February 2017 As part of a 26 May 2016 contract award to Boeing,{{cite news |url=http://breakingdefense.com/2016/05/v-22-refueling-contract-highlights-close-ties-to-f-35/ |title=V-22 Refueling Contract Highlights Close Ties To F-35 |last1=Whittle |first1=Richard |date=27 May 2016 |website=breakingdefense.com |publisher=Breaking Media, Inc. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028024015/http://breakingdefense.com/2016/05/v-22-refueling-contract-highlights-close-ties-to-f-35/ |archive-date=28 October 2016 |url-status=live}} Cobham was contracted to adapt their FR-300 hose drum unit as used by the KC-130 in October 2016.{{cite news |url=http://www.dodbuzz.com/2016/10/26/new-system-will-allow-ospreys-refuel-f-35s-flight/ |title=New System Will Allow Ospreys to Refuel F-35s in Flight |last1=Seck |first1=Hope Hodge |date=26 October 2016 |website=dodbuzz.com |publisher=Military.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161027130957/http://www.dodbuzz.com/2016/10/26/new-system-will-allow-ospreys-refuel-f-35s-flight/ |archive-date=27 October 2016 |url-status=dead}} In May 2025, the Navy confirmed that V-22s were not training for aerial refueling missions, and that neither NAVAIR nor the V-22 program office intends to pursue such a capability as there was no interest from the fleet.{{Cite web |last=Rogoway |first=Tyler |date=2025-05-01 |title=Marine MV-22 Ospreys Won't Get Tanker Capability To Refuel F-35Bs Anytime Soon |url=https://www.twz.com/air/mv-22-osprey-will-not-be-getting-tanker-capability-to-refuel-f-35bs |access-date=2025-05-09 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}
Operational history
In October 2019, the fleet of 375 V-22s operated by the U.S. Armed Forces surpassed the 500,000 flight hour mark.{{cite press release |url= https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-10-07-Bell-Boeing-V-22-Osprey-Fleet-Surpasses-500-000-Flight-Hours |title= Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey Fleet Surpasses 500,000 Flight Hours |date= 7 October 2019 |publisher= Boeing |access-date= 8 October 2019 |archive-date= 8 October 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191008031401/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-10-07-Bell-Boeing-V-22-Osprey-Fleet-Surpasses-500-000-Flight-Hours |url-status= live}} A fatal accident in December 2023, led the fleet being grounded until March 2024 by the US and Japan.{{Cite web |title=Navy Clears Return to Flight for V-22 Osprey Aircraft |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3701321/navy-clears-return-to-flight-for-v-22-osprey-aircraft/https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3701321/navy-clears-return-to-flight-for-v-22-osprey-aircraft/ |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=U.S. Department of Defense |language=en-US}}{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}
=U.S. Marine Corps=
File:Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 disembarks from MV-22B Osprey (48464541017).jpg, California, 2019.]]
Since March 2000, VMMT-204 has conducted training for the type. In December 2005, Lieutenant General James Amos, commander of II Marine Expeditionary Force, accepted delivery of the first batch of MV-22s. The unit reactivated in March 2006 as the first MV-22 squadron, redesignated as VMM-263. In 2007, HMM-266 became Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 (VMM-266)[http://www.marines.mil/unit/2ndmaw/mag26/vmm266/Pages/History.aspx "Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 History"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120122000416/http://www.marines.mil/unit/2ndmaw/mag26/vmm266/Pages/History.aspx |date=22 January 2012}} U.S. Marine Corps. Retrieved 16 October 2011. and reached initial operational capability.{{cite web |url=http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=178 |title=Osprey Deemed Ready for Deployment |publisher=U.S. Marine Corps |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161201231225/http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=178 |archive-date=1 December 2016 |date=14 June 2007 |access-date=19 June 2019}} The MV-22 started replacing the CH-46 Sea Knight in 2007; the CH-46 was retired in October 2014.Carter, Chelsea J. [https://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-03-18-316395978_x.htm "Miramar Base to Get Osprey Squadrons"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120317124313/http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-03-18-316395978_x.htm |date=17 March 2012}} USA Today (Associated Press), 18 March 2008.[http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/10/03/venerable-sea-knight-makes-goodbye-flights.html Venerable 'Sea Knight' Makes Goodbye Flights] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221183828/http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/10/03/venerable-sea-knight-makes-goodbye-flights.html |date=21 December 2014}} – Military.com, 3 October 2014 On 13 April 2007, the USMC announced the first V-22 combat deployment at Al Asad Airbase, Iraq.Mount, Mike. [http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/04/13/osprey/index.html "Marines to deploy tilt-rotor aircraft to Iraq"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070531131417/http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/04/13/osprey/index.html |date=31 May 2007}} CNN, 14 April 2007.[https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna18098457 "Controversial Osprey aircraft heading to Iraq; Marines bullish on hybrid helicopter-plane despite past accidents"] . MSNBC, 13 April 2007.
File:20080406165033!V-22 Osprey refueling edit1.jpg
V-22s in Iraq's Anbar province were used for transport and scout missions. General David Petraeus, the top U.S. military commander in Iraq, used one to visit troops on Christmas Day 2007;Mount, Mike. [http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/02/08/osprey/index.html "Maligned aircraft finds redemption in Iraq, military says"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210001349/http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/02/08/osprey/index.html |date=10 February 2009}} CNN, 8 February 2008. as did Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential campaign tour in Iraq.Hambling, David. [http://blog.wired.com/defense/2008/07/httpwwwaviati-1.html "Osprey's 'Excellent Photo Op{{'"}}]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080805205511/http://blog.wired.com/defense/2008/07/httpwwwaviati-1.html |date=5 August 2008}} Wired (CondéNet, Inc.), 31 July 2008. USMC Col. Kelly recalled how visitors were reluctant to fly on the unfamiliar aircraft, but after seeing its speed and ability to fly above ground fire, "All of a sudden, the entire flight schedule was booked. No senior officer wanted to go anywhere unless they could fly on the V-22".{{r|adde20210414}} Obtaining spares proved problematic.Warwick, Graham. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/07/221396/picture-us-marine-corps-says-v-22-osprey-performing-well-in-iraq.html "US Marine Corps says V-22 Osprey performing well in Iraq"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090209204148/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/07/221396/picture-us-marine-corps-says-v-22-osprey-performing-well-in-iraq.html |date=9 February 2009}} Flightglobal, 7 February 2008. By July 2008, the V-22 had flown 3,000 sorties totaling 5,200 hours in Iraq.Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/07/22/225803/farnborough-2008-usmc-eyes-afghan-challenge-for-v-22.html "USMC eyes Afghan challenge for V-22 Osprey"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081207203443/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/07/22/225803/farnborough-2008-usmc-eyes-afghan-challenge-for-v-22.html |date=7 December 2008}} Flight International, 22 July 2008. General George J. Trautman III praised its greater speed and range over legacy helicopters, saying "it turned his battle space from the size of Texas into the size of Rhode Island."[https://web.archive.org/web/20120121021458/http://www.defense.gov/dodcmsshare/BloggerAssets/2009-05/05060916313620090506_Trautman_transcript.pdf "Department of Defense Bloggers Roundtable with Lieutenant General George Trautman, Deputy Commandant of the Marines for Aviation via teleconference from Iraq"]. U.S. Department of Defense, 6 May 2009. . Despite attacks by man-portable air-defense systems and small arms, none were lost to enemy fire by late 2009.Gertler, Jeremiah. (quoting USMC Karsten Heckl) [http://assets.opencrs.com/rpts/RL31384_20091222.pdf "V-22 Osprey Tilt-Rotor Aircraft: Background and Issues for Congress"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105084633/http://assets.opencrs.com/rpts/RL31384_20091222.pdf |date=5 November 2012}}, p. 30. Congressional Research Service reports, 22 December 2009.
A Government Accountability Office study stated that by January 2009, the 12 MV-22s in Iraq had completed all assigned missions; mission capable rates averaged 57% to 68%, and an overall full mission capable rate of 6%. It also noted weaknesses in situational awareness, maintenance, shipboard operations and transport capability.[http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-09-482 "GAO-09-482: Defense Acquisitions, Assessments Needed to Address V-22 Aircraft Operational and Cost Concerns to Define Future Investments" (summary)]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090624215716/http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-09-482 |date=24 June 2009}} Government Accountability Office. Retrieved: 30 December 2010.[http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09482.pdf "GAO-09-482: Defense Acquisitions, Assessments Needed to Address V-22 Aircraft Operational and Cost Concerns to Define Future Investments" (full report)"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090624124401/http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09482.pdf |date=24 June 2009}} U.S. Government Accountability Office, 11 May 2009. The report concluded: "deployments confirmed that the V-22's enhanced speed and range enable personnel and internal cargo to be transported faster and farther than is possible with the legacy helicopters".
MV-22s deployed to Afghanistan in November 2009 with VMM-261;McLeary, Paul. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/dti/2010/02/01/DT_02_01_2010_p41-197406.xml&headline=MV-22%20and%20ABV%20Meet%20Expectations "Trial By Fire"]. {{dead link|date=March 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} Aviation Week, 15 March 2010.Schanz, Marc V. {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120616233151/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/DRArchive/Pages/2009/February%202009/February%2025%202009/V-22sGotDirtyinAnbar.aspx "V-22s Got Dirty in Anbar"]}}. Air Force magazine, Daily Report, 25 February 2009. it saw its first offensive combat mission, Operation Cobra's Anger, on 4 December 2009. V-22s assisted in inserting 1,000 USMC and 150 Afghan troops into the Now Zad Valley of Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan to disrupt Taliban operations. General James Amos stated that Afghanistan's MV-22s had surpassed 100,000 flight hours, calling it "the safest airplane, or close to the safest airplane" in the USMC inventory.{{usurped|1=[https://archive.today/20120708072806/http://defensetech.org/2011/02/18/mv-22-logs-100000-flight-hours/ "MV-22 Logs 100,000 Flight Hours"]}}. DefenseTech, February 2011. The V-22's Afghan deployment was set to end in late 2013 with the drawdown of combat operations; however, VMM-261 was directed to extend operations for casualty evacuation, being quicker than helicopters enabled more casualties to reach a hospital within the 'golden hour'; they were fitted with medical equipment such as heart monitors and triage supplies.[http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20140517/NEWS/305170035/Casevac-new-Osprey-mission-Afghanistan Casevac, the new Osprey mission in Afghanistan] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605053146/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20140517/NEWS/305170035/Casevac-new-Osprey-mission-Afghanistan |date=5 June 2014}} – Marine Corps Times, 17 May 2014
File:USMC V-22 241212 Afghanistan.jpg land at a forward operating base in Afghanistan, 2012]]
In January 2010, the MV-22 was sent to Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response relief efforts after an earthquake, the type's first humanitarian mission.Talton, Trista. [http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/01/marine_24th_meu_012010w/ "24th MEU joining Haiti relief effort"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118064448/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/01/marine_24th_meu_012010w/ |date=18 January 2012}} Marine Corps Times, 20 January 2010. Retrieved 21 January 2010. In March 2011, two MV-22s from {{USS|Kearsarge|LHD-3|2}} helped rescue a downed USAF F-15E crew member during Operation Odyssey Dawn.Mulrine, Anna. [http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Military/2011/0322/How-an-MV-22-Osprey-rescued-a-downed-US-pilot-in-Libya "How an MV-22 Osprey rescued a downed US pilot in Libya"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110325055609/http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Military/2011/0322/How-an-MV-22-Osprey-rescued-a-downed-US-pilot-in-Libya |date=25 March 2011}} Christian Science Monitor, 22 March 2011.Lamothe, Dan. [https://archive.today/20120907013301/http://www.navytimes.com/news/2011/03/marines-libya-rescue-f-15-odyssey-dawn-032211 "Reports: Marines rescue downed pilot in Libya"]. Navy Times, 22 March 2011. On 2 May 2011, following Operation Neptune's Spear, the body of Osama bin Laden, founder of the al-Qaeda terrorist group, was flown by an MV-22 to the aircraft carrier {{USS|Carl Vinson|CVN-70|2}} in the Arabian Sea, prior to his burial at sea.{{cite web |author= Ki Mae Heussner |title= USS Carl Vinson: Osama Bin Laden's Burial at Sea |url= https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/uss-carl-vinson-osama-bin-ladens-burial-sea/story?id=13510831 |work= Technology |publisher= ABC News |date= 2 May 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110504142851/https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/uss-carl-vinson-osama-bin-ladens-burial-sea/story?id=13510831 |archive-date= 4 May 2011 |url-status= live}}; {{cite web |author= Jim Garamone |title= Bin Laden Buried at Sea |url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60124 |work= NNS110502-22 |publisher= American Forces Press Service |date= 2 May 2011 |archive-url= https://www.webcitation.org/67sSK8ryC?url=http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60124 |archive-date= 23 May 2012 |url-status= dead}}.
In 2013, several MV-22s received communications and seating modifications to support the Marine One presidential transport squadron because of the urgent need for CH-53Es in Afghanistan.Revelos, Andrew. [http://www.quantico.usmc.mil/Sentry/StoryView.aspx?SID=5147 "HMX-1's 'Super Stallions' reassigned to operating forces"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120323102240/http://www.quantico.usmc.mil/Sentry/StoryView.aspx?SID=5147 |date=23 March 2012}} USMC, 15 April 2011.Munoz, Carlo. [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/115355-osprey-to-take-on-white-house-transport-mission-in-2013/ "Osprey to take on White House transport mission in 2013"]. [https://thehill.com/policy/defense/115355-osprey-to-take-on-white-house-transport-mission-in-2013/] The Hill, 24 May 2012. In May 2010, Boeing announced plans to submit the V-22 for the VXX presidential transport replacement.Reed, John. [http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/05/military_osprey_boeing_050510w/ "Boeing to make new multiyear Osprey offer"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322203503/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2010/05/military_osprey_boeing_050510w/ |date=22 March 2012}} Marine Corps Times, 5 May 2010. Retrieved 6 May 2010.
From 2 to 5 August 2013, two MV-22s completed the longest distance Osprey tanking mission to date. Flying from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Okinawa alongside two KC-130J tankers, they flew to Clark Air Base in the Philippines on 2 August; then to Darwin, Australia, on 3 August; to Townsville, Australia, on 4 August; and finally rendezvoused with {{USS|Bonhomme Richard|LHD-6|2}} on 5 August.[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=784 Two MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft completed longest distance flight in the Pacific region] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130831225851/http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=784 |date=31 August 2013}} – Airrecognition.com, 8 August 2013
In 2013, the USMC formed an intercontinental response force, the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa,{{cite web |url=http://www.app.com/article/20130615/NJNEWS18/306150029/Marines-Army-form-quick-strike-forces-Africa |title=Marines, Army form quick-strike forces for Africa |date=15 June 2013 |work=USA Today}} using V-22s outfitted with specialized communications gear."[http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/interactive/article/20140403/NEWS04/304030048/Marines-want-new-technology-post-Benghazi-crisis-response-missions Marines want new technology for post-Benghazi crisis-response missions] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413132559/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/interactive/article/20140403/NEWS04/304030048/Marines-want-new-technology-post-Benghazi-crisis-response-missions |date=2014-04-13}}" Accessed: 9 April 2014. In 2013, following Typhoon Haiyan, 12 MV-22s of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade were deployed to the Philippines for disaster relief operations;Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-potential-v-22-customers-advised-to-take-advantage-of-slot-availability-393326/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131125164558/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dubai-potential-v-22-customers-advised-to-take-advantage-of-slot-availability-393326/|date=25 November 2013}} Flight International, 20 November 2013. its abilities were described as "uniquely relevant", flying faster and with greater payloads while moving supplies throughout the island archipelago.[http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20131113/NEWS08/311130020/Assistant-commandant-MV-22-key-Marines-Philippines-mission Assistant commandant: MV-22 key to Marines' Philippines mission] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113215851/http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20131113/NEWS08/311130020/Assistant-commandant-MV-22-key-Marines-Philippines-mission |date=13 November 2013}} – MilitaryTimes, 13 November 2013
On 9 October 2024, the last operational Marine Corps CH-46 squadron, HMM-364, re-designated as VMM-364. On 1 August 2015, the Marine Corps retired its final CH-46 and completed its transition from CH-46 Sea Knight to the MV-22 Osprey.{{Cite web |last=Le |first=Cuong |date=1 August 2015 |title=Sea Knight’s final flight |url=https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/611798/sea-knights-final-flight/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250322081202/https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/611798/sea-knights-final-flight/ |archive-date=22 March 2025 |access-date=13 May 2025 |website=Marines.mil}}
=U.S. Air Force=
File:CV-22 Formation.jpeg, New Mexico, in 2006|alt= Two USAF CV-22s in a staggered pattern with their rotors vertical preparing to land at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.]]
The USAF's first operational CV-22 was delivered to the 58th Special Operations Wing (58th SOW) at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, in March 2006. Early aircraft were delivered to the 58th SOW and used for training personnel for special operations use.[https://www.af.mil/News/story/id/123017805/ "CV-22 delivered to Air Force"]. [https://www.af.mil/News/story/id/123017805/] Air Force Special Operations Command News Service via Air Force Link (United States Air Force), 21 March 2006. Retrieved 3 August 2008. On 16 November 2006, the USAF officially accepted the CV-22 in a ceremony conducted at Hurlburt Field, Florida.[https://archive.today/20121212033233/http://www2.hurlburt.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123032329 "CV-22 arrival"]. Hulbert Field, United States Air Force, 20 April 2006. Retrieved 20 November 2006. The USAF's first operational deployment sent four CV-22s to Mali in November 2008 in support of Exercise Flintlock. The CV-22s flew nonstop from Hurlburt Field, Florida, with in-flight refueling. AFSOC declared that the 8th Special Operations Squadron reached Initial Operational Capability in March 2009, with six CV-22s in service.Sirak, Michael. {{usurped|1=[https://archive.today/20130116072158/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2009/May%202009/0509world.aspx "Osprey Ready for Combat"]}}. Air Force Magazine, Volume 92, Issue 5, May 2009, pp. 11–12. Retrieved 10 May 2009.
File:Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey.ogv
File:CV-22 refuels from an MC-130J during Freedom Shield 23.jpg
In December 2013, three CV-22s came under small arms fire while trying to evacuate American civilians in Bor, South Sudan, during the 2013 South Sudanese political crisis; the aircraft flew {{convert|500|mi|km|abbr=on}} to Entebbe, Uganda, after the mission was aborted. South Sudanese officials stated that the attackers were rebels.Gordon, Michael R. "[https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/22/world/africa/south-sudan.html?emc=edit_tnt_20131221&tntemail0=y&_r=1& Attack on U.S. Aircraft Foils Evacuation in South Sudan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180816093743/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/22/world/africa/south-sudan.html?emc=edit_tnt_20131221&tntemail0=y&_r=1& |date=2018-08-16}}" The New York Times, 21 December 2013.[http://www.armyrecognition.com/december_2013_defense_industry_military_news_uk/four_u.s._soldiers_injured_in_south_sudan_after_their_aircraft_cv-22_osprey_came_under_fire_2212131.html "Four U.S. soldiers injured in South Sudan after their aircraft CV-22 Osprey came under fire"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224122754/http://www.armyrecognition.com/december_2013_defense_industry_military_news_uk/four_u.s._soldiers_injured_in_south_sudan_after_their_aircraft_cv-22_osprey_came_under_fire_2212131.html |date=24 December 2013}}. Armyrecognition.com, 22 December 2013. The CV-22s had flown to Bor over three countries across {{convert|790|nmi|mi km|abbr=on}}. The formation was hit 119 times, wounding four crew and causing flight control failures and hydraulic and fuel leaks on all three aircraft. Fuel leaks resulted in multiple air-to-air refuelings en route.[http://globalaviationreport.com/2014/08/04/cv-22-crews-save-lives/ "CV-22 crews save lives"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812224859/http://globalaviationreport.com/2014/08/04/cv-22-crews-save-lives/ |date=12 August 2014}}. Globalavaiationreport.com, 4 August 2014. After the incident, AFSOC developed optional armor floor panels.
The USAF found that "CV-22 wake modeling is inadequate for a trailing aircraft to make accurate estimations of safe separation [distance] from the preceding aircraft."[http://defense.aol.com/2012/08/30/afsoc-crash-report-faults-understanding-of-osprey-wake-effects/ "AFSOC Crash Report Faults Understanding Of Osprey Rotor Wake"]. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120923033201/http://defense.aol.com/2012/08/30/afsoc-crash-report-faults-understanding-of-osprey-wake-effects |date=23 September 2012}} AOL Defense, 30 August 2012. In 2015, the USAF sought to configure the CV-22 to perform combat search and rescue in addition to its long-range special operations transport mission. It would complement the HH-60G Pave Hawk and planned HH-60W rescue helicopters, being employed in scenarios where high speed is better suited to search and rescue than more nimble but slower helicopters.[https://archive.today/20150422213636/http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2015/04/22/welsh-osprey-combat-search-and-rescue/26176253/ Air Force looking at using Ospreys for search and rescue] – MilitaryTimes, 22 April 2015 In 2019, a plan was formulated for the USAF V-22 to use the AN/APQ-187 Silent Knight terrain avoidance radar, which was tested on the CV-22 at Eglin Air Force base by 2020.{{Cite web |date=19 February 2019 |title=Air Force V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft to receive special forces Silent Knight terrain-avoiding radar |url=https://www.militaryaerospace.com/sensors/article/16711579/air-force-v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft-to-receive-special-forces-silent-knight-terrain-avoiding-radar |access-date=11 September 2024 |website=Military Aerospace |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=15 July 2020 |title=Eglin squadron begins radar system tests on CV-22 |url=https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2278531/eglin-squadron-begins-radar-system-tests-on-cv-22/ |access-date=11 September 2024 |website=Air Force Special Operations Command |language=en-US}} This radar is used on many Air Force aircraft, such as C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and MH-47 Chinook helicopters.{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Richard |date=6 December 2023 |title=RTX to continue USSOCOM Silent Knight Radar production |url=https://www.army-technology.com/news/raytheon-to-continue-ussocom-silent-knight-radar-production/ |access-date=11 September 2024 |website=Army Technology |language=en-US}}
On 29 November 2023, a CV-22B assigned to the US Air Force's 353rd Special Operations Wing crashed into the East China Sea off Yakushima Island, Japan, killing all eight airmen aboard. The Osprey, based at Yokota Air Base, was flying from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni to Kadena Air Base on Okinawa Island in clear weather and light winds. An Air Force investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.{{Cite web |last=Yamaguchi |first=Mari |date=29 November 2023 |title=US military Osprey aircraft with 8 aboard crashes into the sea off southern Japan |url=https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-military-osprey-helicopter-crash-7d704ec5925826593aebcf0e7d1312ca |access-date=29 November 2023 |website=AP News |language=en |archive-date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207083645/https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-military-osprey-helicopter-crash-7d704ec5925826593aebcf0e7d1312ca |url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Yamagucci |first=Mari |date=4 December 2023 |title=Divers have found wreckage, 5 remains from Osprey aircraft that crashed off Japan, US Air Force says |url=https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-military-osprey-crash-search-a899abbe07447607813302ef06881424 |access-date=4 December 2023 |website=AP News |language=en |archive-date=12 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212022040/https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-military-osprey-crash-search-a899abbe07447607813302ef06881424 |url-status=live}} A preliminary investigation has revealed a "potential materiel failure" could have caused the accident. On 6 December 2023, the U.S. Navy (NAVAIR) and the Air Force (AFSOC) grounded their V-22 fleets. Japan (Maritime Self Defense Force) also has grounded their fleet.{{Cite news |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/budget-policy-operations/all-v-22s-grounded-probe-finds-materiel-failure-possible |title=All V-22s Grounded, Probe Finds Materiel Failure Possible In USAF Crash |first1=Brian |last1=Everstine |date=6 December 2023 |work=Aviation Week Intelligence Network |quote=Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) boss Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind ordered the operational stand down of the command's fleet on Dec. 6, shortly after Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) instituted a grounding bulletin for all its V-22 variants. It is the second time this year that V-22s from all U.S. military services have been grounded. The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force had also grounded its V-22s following the Nov. 29 crash. |access-date=25 January 2024 |archive-date=24 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240124044124/https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/budget-policy-operations/all-v-22s-grounded-probe-finds-materiel-failure-possible |url-status=live}} In early March the US and Japan resumed flights of the V-22 with revised maintenance and pilot training focuses but no changes to the aircraft.{{Cite web|url=https://www.navair.navy.mil/news/NAVAIR-returns-V-22-Osprey-flight-status/Fri-03082024-0553|title=NAVAIR returns V-22 Osprey to flight status}} The V-22 was returned to flight with no changes; the part that failed was identified and how it failed determined, although the accident was still under scrutiny.{{Cite web |last1=Eckstein |first1=Megan |last2=Mabeus-Brown |first2=Courtney |last3=Cohen |first3=Rachel |date=8 March 2024 |title=V-22 Osprey fleet will fly again, with no fixes but renewed training |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/03/08/v-22-osprey-fleet-will-fly-again-with-no-fixes-but-renewed-training/ |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=Defense News |language=en}} A near crash in December 2024 led to another operation pause, over concerns about metal fatigue.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-09 |title=Military pauses Osprey flights again after more metal failures are found in near crash in November |url=https://ca.news.yahoo.com/military-pauses-osprey-flights-again-163007210.html |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=Yahoo News |language=en-CA}}
=U.S. Navy=
The V-22 program originally included Navy 48 HV-22s, but none were ordered. In 2009, it was proposed that it replace the C-2 Greyhound for carrier onboard delivery (COD) duties. One advantage of the V-22 is the ability to deliver supplies and people between non-carrier ships beyond helicopter range.Tilghman, Andrew. [http://www.navytimes.com/news/2009/09/navy_osprey_092009w/ "Tilt-rotor helicopter still looking for mission"]. Navy Times, 20 September 2009.Thompson, Loren B. [http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/v-for-versatility-osprey-reaches-for-new-missions?a=1&c=1129 {{"'}}V' For Versatility: Osprey Reaches For New Missions"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100410205759/http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/v-for-versatility-osprey-reaches-for-new-missions?a=1&c=1129 |date=10 April 2010}} Lexington Institute, 29 March 2010. Proponents said that it is capable of similar speed, payload capacity, and lift performance to the C-2, and can carry greater payloads over short ranges, up to 20,000 lb, including suspended external loads. The C-2 can only deliver cargo to carriers, requiring further distribution to smaller vessels via helicopters, while the V-22 is certified for operating upon amphibious ships, aircraft carriers, and logistics ships. It could also take some helicopter roles by fitting a 600 lb hoist to the ramp and a cabin configuration for 12 non-ambulatory patients and 5 seats for medical attendants.[http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/the-future-cod-aircraft-contenders-the-bell-boeing-v-22/ The Future COD Aircraft Contenders: The Bell Boeing V-22] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130806120453/http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/the-future-cod-aircraft-contenders-the-bell-boeing-v-22/ |date=6 August 2013}} – Defensemedianetwork.com, 2 August 2013 Bell and P&W designed a frame for the V-22 to transport the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine of the F-35.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-israel-could-double-v-22-order-size-bell-396274/ Israel could double V-22 order size, Bell says] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315231557/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-israel-could-double-v-22-order-size-bell-396274/ |date=15 March 2014}} – Flightglobal.com, 25 February 2014
On 5 January 2015, the Navy and USMC signed a memorandum of understanding to buy the V-22 for the COD mission.[http://breakingdefense.com/2015/02/navy-2016-budget-funds-v-22-cod-buy-carrier-refuel/ Navy 2016 Budget Funds V-22 COD Buy, Carrier Refuel] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510121357/http://breakingdefense.com/2015/02/navy-2016-budget-funds-v-22-cod-buy-carrier-refuel/ |date=10 May 2015}} – Breakingdefense.com, 2 February 2015 Initially designated HV-22, four aircraft were bought each year from 2018 to 2020.[http://news.usni.org/2015/01/13/navy-selects-bell-boeing-osprey-next-carrier-delivery-aircraft Navy and Marines Sign MOU for Bell-Boeing Osprey to be Next Carrier Delivery Aircraft] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118201328/http://news.usni.org/2015/01/13/navy-selects-bell-boeing-osprey-next-carrier-delivery-aircraft |date=18 January 2015}} – News.USNI.org, 13 January 2015 It incorporates an extended-range fuel system for an {{convert|1150|nmi|mi km|abbr=on}} unrefueled range, a high-frequency radio for over-the-horizon communications, and a public address system to communicate with passengers;[http://news.usni.org/2015/04/02/navair-details-changes-in-navy-v-22-osprey-variant "NAVAIR Details Changes in Navy V-22 Osprey Variant"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403194809/http://news.usni.org/2015/04/02/navair-details-changes-in-navy-v-22-osprey-variant |date=3 April 2015}} News.USNI.org, 2 April 2015.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-begin-designing-cmv-22b-with-151-millio-423786/ Bell-Boeing begin designing CMV-22B with $151 million contract] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416134324/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-begin-designing-cmv-22b-with-151-millio-423786/ |date=16 April 2016}} – Flightglobal.com, 1 April 2016 the range increase comes from extra fuel bladders[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-begins-designing-cmv-22b-with-151-milli-423786/ Bell-Boeing begins designing CMV-22B with $151 million contract] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107104540/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-boeing-begins-designing-cmv-22b-with-151-milli-423786/ |date=7 November 2016}} – Flightglobal.com, 1 April 2016 in larger external sponsons, the only external difference from other variants. Its primary mission is long-range logistics; other conceivable missions include personnel recovery and special warfare.[http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2016/december-2016-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4740-u-s-navy-orders-long-lead-components-for-6-cmv-22b-osprey-from-bell-boeing.html U.S. Navy Orders Long-Lead Components for 6 CMV-22B Osprey From Bell Boeing] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711142020/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2016/december-2016-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4740-u-s-navy-orders-long-lead-components-for-6-cmv-22b-osprey-from-bell-boeing.html |date=11 July 2017}} – Navyrecognition.com, 29 December 2016 In February 2016, the Navy officially designated it the CMV-22B.[http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=6176 V-22 Navy variant receives official designation] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303045225/http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=6176 |date=3 March 2016}} – United States Navy, 3 February 2016 The Navy's Program of Record originally called for 48 aircraft, but it was later determined that only 44 were required. Production began in FY 2018, and deliveries started in 2020.[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-navy-reveals-cmv-22b-as-long-range-osprey-designa-421620/ US Navy reveals CMV-22B as long-range Osprey designation] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160209033634/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-navy-reveals-cmv-22b-as-long-range-osprey-designa-421620/ |date=9 February 2016}} – Flightglobal.com, 4 February 2016.[http://news.usni.org/2016/02/05/navys-osprey-will-be-called-cmv-22b-procurement-to-begin-in-fy-2018 Navy's Osprey Will Be Called CMV-22B; Procurement To Begin In FY 2018] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207102148/http://news.usni.org/2016/02/05/navys-osprey-will-be-called-cmv-22b-procurement-to-begin-in-fy-2018 |date=7 February 2016}} – News.USNI.org, 5 February 2016.
The Navy ordered the first 39 CMV-22Bs in June 2018; initial operating capability was achieved in 2021, with fielding to the fleet by the mid-2020s.[https://news.usni.org/2018/07/02/navy-awards-bell-boeing-4-2-billion-contract-modification-for-74-v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft Navy Buys First V-22 CODs as Part of $4.2B Award to Bell-Boeing] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704005937/https://news.usni.org/2018/07/02/navy-awards-bell-boeing-4-2-billion-contract-modification-for-74-v-22-osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft |date=4 July 2018}}. USNI News. 2 July 2018.{{Cite web |title=CMV-22B Osprey |url=https://www.navair.navy.mil/product/CMV-22B-Osprey |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603073841/https://www.navair.navy.mil/product/CMV-22B-Osprey |archive-date=3 June 2023 |access-date=30 August 2023 |website=Naval Air Systems Command}} The first CMV-22B made its initial flight in December 2019.{{cite web|url=http://news.bellflight.com/en-US/186206-bell-boeing-host-first-reveal-ceremony-for-cmv-22b-osprey|title=Bell Boeing Host First Reveal Ceremony for CMV-22B Osprey|date=7 February 2020|work=Press Release|publisher=News.bellflight.com|access-date=9 February 2020|archive-date=14 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210514114115/https://news.bellflight.com/en-US/186206-bell-boeing-host-first-reveal-ceremony-for-cmv-22b-osprey|url-status=live}} The first deployment began in summer 2021 aboard USS Carl Vinson.{{cite web |title=Navy's V-22 Achieves Initial Operational Capability Designation |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2940299/navys-v-22-achieves-initial-operational-capability-designation/#:~:text=This%20past%20summer%20marked%20the,E%2D2D%20Advanced%20Hawkeye%20squadrons. |website=United States Navy |access-date=23 June 2022 |archive-date=23 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623183716/https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2940299/navys-v-22-achieves-initial-operational-capability-designation/#:~:text=This%20past%20summer%20marked%20the,E%2D2D%20Advanced%20Hawkeye%20squadrons. |url-status=live}} The Navy is planning an upgraded gearbox for their CMV-22B.
=Japan Self-Defense Forces=
File:CV-22 Ospreys over Tokyo.jpg
Japan bought the V-22 and they entered defense service in 2020, becoming the first international customer for the tiltrotor.{{Cite web |title=Japan Self-Defense Force Accepts Delivery of First V-22 Osprey Megan Eckstein July 14, 2020 |date=14 July 2020 |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/07/14/japan-self-defense-force-accepts-delivery-of-first-v-22-osprey}}
In 2012, then-Defense Minister Satoshi Morimoto ordered an investigation of the costs of V-22 operations. The V-22's capabilities exceeded current Japan Self-Defense Forces helicopters in terms of range, speed and payload. The ministry anticipated deployments to the Nansei Islands and the Senkaku Islands, as well as in multinational cooperation with the U.S.{{cite web|url=http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ201212310084|title=Defense Ministry studies Osprey use by Self-Defense Forces|work=AJW by The Asahi Shimbun|access-date=6 April 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509232430/http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ201212310084|archive-date=9 May 2015}} In November 2014, the Japanese Ministry of Defense decided to procure 17 V-22s.[https://archive.today/20141122175404/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141121/DEFREG03/311210023/Japan-Officially-Selects-Osprey-Global-Hawk-E-2D Japan Officially Selects Osprey, Global Hawk, E-2D] – Defensenews.com, 21 November 2014 The first V-22 for Japan undertook its first flight in August 2017{{cite web |url=https://theaviationist.com/2017/08/26/here-is-japans-first-v-22-the-first-osprey-tilt-rotor-aircraft-for-a-military-outside-of-the-u-s/ |title=Here Is Japan's First V-22: The First Osprey Tilt-Rotor Aircraft For A Military Outside Of The U.S. |last=Cenciotti |first=David |date=26 August 2017 |publisher=The Aviationist |access-date=14 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144014/https://theaviationist.com/2017/08/26/here-is-japans-first-v-22-the-first-osprey-tilt-rotor-aircraft-for-a-military-outside-of-the-u-s/ |archive-date=12 June 2018 |url-status=live}} and the aircraft began delivery to the Japanese military in 2020.{{Cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/05/11/Japan-receives-its-first-V-22-Osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft/2541589214206/|title=Japan receives its first V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft|website=UPI|access-date=19 December 2022|archive-date=8 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008231346/https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/05/11/Japan-receives-its-first-V-22-Osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft/2541589214206/|url-status=live}}
File:V-22 Osprey(JG-1705)left side.jpg
In September 2018, the Japanese Ministry of Defense decided to delay the deployment of the first five MV-22Bs it had received amid opposition and ongoing negotiations in the Saga Prefecture, where the aircraft are to be based.{{cite web |last1=Takahashi |first1=Kosuke |title=Tokyo to delay deployment of Osprey tiltrotors amid local opposition |url=https://www.janes.com/article/83299/tokyo-to-delay-deployment-of-osprey-tiltrotors-amid-local-opposition |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=25 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924191656/https://www.janes.com/article/83299/tokyo-to-delay-deployment-of-osprey-tiltrotors-amid-local-opposition |archive-date=24 September 2018 |location=Tokyo |date=24 September 2018 |url-status=dead}} On 8 May 2020, the first two of the five aircraft were delivered to the JGSDF at Kisarazu Air Field after failing to reach an agreement with Saga prefecture residents.{{cite news |last1=Adamczyk |first1=Ed |title=Japan receives its first V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft |url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/05/11/Japan-receives-its-first-V-22-Osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft/2541589214206/ |access-date=23 July 2020 |work=United Press International |date=11 May 2020 |archive-date=8 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008231346/https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/05/11/Japan-receives-its-first-V-22-Osprey-tiltrotor-aircraft/2541589214206/ |url-status=live}} It is planned to eventually station some V-22s on board the {{sclass|Izumo|helicopter destroyer|3}}s. In September 2023, the first V-22 landings were conducted on the helicopter carrier {{JS|Ise||2}}. The aircraft are planned to be based at Saga Airport in Kyushu starting in 2025 where the V-22s will be deployed together with Sikorsky Black Hawk and Apache Longbow helicopters in order to better defend Japan's southern Nansei Islands.{{cite web |last=Inaba |first=Yoshihiro |title=Japanese V-22 Lands On JMSDF Vessel For The First Time |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/09/japanese-v-22-lands-on-jmsdf-vessel-for-the-first-time/ |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Naval News |date=11 September 2023 |archive-date=10 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010234748/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/09/japanese-v-22-lands-on-jmsdf-vessel-for-the-first-time/ |url-status=live}}
Following the fatal crash of a US Air Force CV-22 off Yakushima on 29 November 2023, Japan suspended flights of its 14 MV-22s.{{Cite web |date=4 December 2023 |title=Divers find wreckage and remains from Osprey aircraft that crashed off Japan |url=https://www.npr.org/2023/12/04/1216945245/osprey-japan-wreckage-air-force |website=NPR |access-date=8 December 2023 |archive-date=8 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208165126/https://www.npr.org/2023/12/04/1216945245/osprey-japan-wreckage-air-force |url-status=live}} In early 2024 it was reported that the Japanese would resume flights of the V-22, and in March 2024 flights resumed.{{Cite web |title=Jap V-22 flights could restart |date=13 March 2024 |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/03/13/japanese-v-22-flights-could-start-as-early-as-thursday-says-mod}}{{cite web |author1=Mari Yamagushi |title=US and Japanese forces to resume Osprey flights in Japan following fatal crash |url=https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-osprey-crash-resume-flights-681126ac57622e5d9cfbce8448e4ecfe |website=apnews.com |publisher=The Associated Press |access-date=15 May 2024 |language=English |date=13 March 2024}}
=Potential operators=
The V-22 can carry a power-module of certain fighter jets such as the F-35, and also is noted it could be useful to nations with island chains or carriers.{{Cite web |title=Indonesia cleared to buy eight MV-22 Ospreys |url=https://verticalmag.com/news/indonesia-cleared-to-buy-eights-mv-22-osprey/ |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=Vertical Mag |language=en-US}} One question was why the U.S. Army did not procure the V-22 Osprey, and it was actually in the project at the start, but ended up heavily investing in traditional rotor craft such as the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook.{{Cite web |date=28 November 2017 |title=Will the Army Ever Buy the V-22 Osprey? |url=https://www.military.com/defensetech/2013/10/18/will-the-army-ever-buy-the-v-22-osprey |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=Military.com |language=en}} The V-22 production line is planned to be open to around 2026 to complete the orders for the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corp.{{Cite web |last=Giovanni |date=23 June 2023 |title=End of V-22 Production Signals Failure of Pentagon's Wishful Thinking |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/end-of-v-22-production-signals-failure-of-pentagons-wishful-thinking/ |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=Defense aerospace |language=en-US}}
Early on in the 2010s, some of the possible export buyers included Canada, Japan, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.{{Cite web |first= Andrea |last=Shalal-Esa |title=Countries vying to be first non-U.S. buyer of V-22 Osprey |date= July 10, 2012 |website=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-airshow-v22-idINBRE8691HL20120710/}} Other potential interest came from India and Indonesia. In Europe, there was some interest on the continent from France, Spain, and Italy also.{{Cite web |date=20 January 2016 |title=SNA 2016: UK France Italy and Spain Said to be Interested in Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey |url=https://navyrecognition.com/index.php/naval-news/naval-exhibitions/2016-archives/sna-2016-show-daily-news/3475-sna-2016-uk-france-italy-and-spain-said-to-be-interested-in-bell-boeing-v-22-osprey.html |access-date=29 April 2024 |website=Navy Naval News Navy Recognition |language=en-gb}} Canada is thought to have considered the V-22 for the Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR), but it was not entered as the overall goals prioritized conventional aircraft; that program was won by the C-295, a fixed-wing medium transport.{{Cite web|url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/national/defence-watch/the-v-22-for-canadas-fixed-wing-search-and-rescue-aircraft-program-forget-it|title=The V-22 for Canada's fixed wing search and rescue aircraft program? Forget it | Ottawa Citizen}}{{Cite web |last=Pugliese |first=David |date=7 December 2016 |title=Airbus Awarded $2.3B Canadian Search-and-Rescue Project |url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2016/12/07/airbus-awarded-2-3b-canadian-search-and-rescue-project/ |access-date=29 April 2024 |website=Defense News |language=en}}
The Air Force is also considering some additional V-22 for search and rescue, to supplement the HH-60W with a longer range aircraft, especially in the Indo-Pacific region where longer range is typically needed.{{Cite web |last=Tirpak |first=John |date=27 April 2023 |title=Air Force Will Look at CV-22, New Army Helicopter for Long-Range Combat Search and Rescue |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/air-force-cv-22-army-new-helicopter-csar/ |access-date=29 April 2024 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine |language=en-US}}
File:V-22 landing on HMS Ark Royal during Exercise Auriga 10.jpg
==France==
France showed some interest in the V-22 especially for naval operations. It tested the V-22 in operations on their {{sclass|Mistral|amphibious assault ship|0}} ships, and also their aircraft carrier {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}}. The French had a two-year-long program to insure that the V-22 could operate from their Mistral-class vessels working with USMC V-22.
==India==
In 2015, the Indian Aviation Research Centre showed interest in acquiring four V-22s for personnel evacuation in hostile conditions, logistic supplies, and deployment of the Special Frontier Force in border areas. US V-22s performed relief operations after the April 2015 Nepal earthquake.{{cite web|url=http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12488:india-arc-mulls-ov-22-osprey-buy&catid=3:asia&Itemid=56|title=India; ARC mulls OV-22 Osprey buy|access-date=12 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518093351/http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12488:india-arc-mulls-ov-22-osprey-buy&catid=3:asia&Itemid=56|archive-date=18 May 2015|url-status=dead}} The Indian Navy also studied the V-22 rather than the E-2D for airborne early warning and control to replace the short-range Kamov Ka-31.{{cite web|url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2015-05-07/india-outlines-new-carrier-ambitions|title=India Outlines New Carrier Ambitions|work=Aviation International News|access-date=31 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116130711/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2015-05-07/india-outlines-new-carrier-ambitions|archive-date=16 January 2014|url-status=live}} India is interested in purchasing six attack version V-22s for rapid troop insertion in border areas.{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-sizes-up-v-22-osprey-367058/|title=India sizes up V-22 Osprey|date=18 January 2012|work=FlightGlobal|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818130938/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-sizes-up-v-22-osprey-367058/|archive-date=18 August 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.stratpost.com/bell-boeing-to-brief-india-on-v-22-osprey|title=Bell Boeing to brief India on V-22 Osprey|date=5 December 2011|work=stratpost.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160819163051/http://www.stratpost.com/bell-boeing-to-brief-india-on-v-22-osprey|archive-date=19 August 2016|url-status=live}}
==Indonesia==
On 6 July 2020, the U.S. State Department announced that they had approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Indonesia of eight Block C MV-22s and related equipment for an estimated cost of $2 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=2000000000|start_year=2020}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}). The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of this possible sale.{{cite web |title=Indonesia – MV-22 Block C Osprey Aircraft |url=https://dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/indonesia-mv-22-block-c-osprey-aircraft |publisher=Defense Security Cooperation Agency |access-date=7 July 2020 |archive-date=10 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200710152817/https://dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/indonesia-mv-22-block-c-osprey-aircraft |url-status=dead}} The sale was approved, but in the end Indonesia decided against the purchase at that time due to the cost. It was noted that the V-22 could provide a unique logistical support to the island chain nation, but the concerns about purchase and maintenance costs were an issue.{{Cite web |last=Dangwal |first=Ashish |date=22 January 2024 |title=Indonesia 'Trashes' V-22 Osprey Acquisition After US Approved Sales; Jakarta Justifies The Decision |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/indonesia-trashes-v-22-osprey-acquisition-after-us-approved/ |access-date=27 April 2024 |website=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News |language=en-US}}
==Israel==
On 22 April 2013, an agreement was signed to sell six V-22 to the Israeli Air Force.[https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/id/119838/ "Hagel, Yaalon Finalize New Israel Military Capabilities"] . U.S. DoD, 22 April 2013. By the end of 2016, Israel had not ordered the V-22 and was instead interested in buying the CH-47 Chinook helicopter or the CH-53K helicopter.Yuval Azulai. [http://www.globes.co.il/en/article-lockheed-boeing-vie-for-israeli-helicopter-deal-1001162650 "Lockheed, Boeing vie for Israeli helicopter deal"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161125133423/http://www.globes.co.il/en/article-lockheed-boeing-vie-for-israeli-helicopter-deal-1001162650 |date=25 November 2016}}. Globes, 24 November 2016. As of 2017, Israel had frozen its evaluation of the V-22, "with a senior defence source indicating that the tiltrotor is unable to perform some missions currently conducted using its Sikorsky CH-53 transport helicopters."Egozi, Arie [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-steps-back-from-v-22-purchase-442158 Israel steps back from V-22 purchase] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171018101029/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-steps-back-from-v-22-purchase-442158/ |date=18 October 2017}}. Flight Global, 13 October 2017.
== United Kingdom ==
The U.K. has had a watchful eye on V-22 program, and a combined UK/US study evaluated possible use.{{Cite web |title=UK reportedly expresses interest in V-22 Osprey By George Allison - August 21, 2017 |date=21 August 2017 |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-expresses-interest-in-v-22-osprey/}} One of the more serious evaluations, came in the late 2010s when it was considered to use them on the new {{sclass|Queen Elizabeth|aircraft carrier|0}} carriers.{{Cite web |last=Corfield |first=Gareth |title=UK.gov confirms it won't be buying V-22 Ospreys for new aircraft carriers |url=https://www.theregister.com/2017/03/24/uk_rules_out_v22_osprey_queen_elizabeth_carriers/ |access-date=29 April 2024 |website=www.theregister.com}} In the 2020s, it was thought to be one of the possible aircraft for the U.K.'s New Medium Helicopter program but was not a finalist, a program that is seeking to replace the Westland Puma medium helicopter fleet.{{Cite web |last=Jennings |first=Gareth |date=14 September 2021 |title=DSEI 2021: Contenders showcase New Medium Helicopter offerings for UK |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/dsei-2021-contenders-showcase-new-medium-helicopter-offerings-for-uk |access-date=17 September 2021 |website=Janes.com }}
The V-22 has been used on training exercises in the U.K. which has helped identify some issues, such as that the downwash can disrupt landing mats.{{Cite web |last=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=2021-04-22 |title=Watch This CV-22 Osprey's Rotor Downwash Absolutely Demolish A Hospital's Helipad |url=https://www.twz.com/40289/watch-this-cv-22-ospreys-rotor-downwash-absolutely-demolish-a-hospitals-helipad |access-date=2024-12-27 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}
Variants
File:USAF CV-22B Osprey 11-0058 RIAT 2023 03.jpg
The preproduction model was called the V-22. USMC operates the MV-22B including the VIP V-22s, the USAF the CV-22B, and the Navy CMV-22B.
;V-22 ("V-22A"): Pre-production full-scale development aircraft used for flight testing. These are unofficially considered A-variants after the 1993 redesign.Norton 2004, p. 54.
;CV-22B: U.S. Air Force variant for the U.S. Special Operations Command. It conducts long-range special operations missions and is equipped with extra wing fuel tanks, an AN/APQ-186 terrain-following radar, and other equipment such as the AN/ALQ-211,[https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104531/cv-22-osprey/ "CV-22 Osprey Fact Sheet"]. [https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104531/cv-22-osprey/] United States Air Force, 7 July 2006. Retrieved 21 August 2013.Norton 2004, pp. 71–72. and AN/AAQ-24 Nemesis Directional Infrared Counter Measures.{{Cite web|url=http://www.bellhelicopter.com/MungoBlobs/126/268/V-22%20Guidebook%202013_update_PREVIEW_LR2.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020133122/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/MungoBlobs/126/268/V-22%20Guidebook%202013_update_PREVIEW_LR2.pdf|url-status=dead|title="Bell-Boeing V-22 Guidebook – Bell Helicopter"|archive-date=20 October 2014}} The fuel capacity is increased by 588 gallons (2,230 L) with two inboard wing tanks; three auxiliary tanks (200 or 430 gal; 760 or 1,630 L) can also be added in the cabin.Norton 2004, pp. 100–01. The CV-22 replaced the MH-53 Pave Low.
;MV-22B: U.S. Marine Corps variant. The Marine Corps is the lead service in the V-22's development. The Marine Corps variant is an assault transport for troops, equipment and supplies, capable of operating from ships or expeditionary airfields ashore. It replaced the Marine Corps' CH-46E and CH-53D fleets.Norton 2004, p. 77.[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/us-marine-corps-retires-ch-53d/ "US Marine Corps retires CH-53D"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202224428/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/us-marine-corps-retires-ch-53d/ |date=2 December 2013}}. Rotorhub, 24 February 2012.
;CMV-22B: U.S. Navy variant for the carrier onboard delivery role, replacing the C-2. Similar to the MV-22B but includes an extended-range fuel system, a high-frequency radio, and a public address system.
;EV-22: Proposed airborne early warning and control variant. The Royal Navy studied this variant as a replacement for its fleet of carrier-based Sea King ASaC.7 helicopters.{{cite web |author= Richard Beedall |title= Maritime Airborne Surveillance and Control (MASC) |url= http://navy-matters.beedall.com/masc.htm |work= NNS121008-13 |publisher= Naval Matters |date= 9 October 2012 |access-date= 9 October 2011 |url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110927052605/http://navy-matters.beedall.com/masc.htm |archive-date= 27 September 2011}}
;HV-22: The U.S. Navy considered an HV-22 to provide combat search and rescue, delivery and retrieval of special warfare teams along with fleet logistic support transport. It chose the MH-60S for this role in 2001.Norton 2004, pp. 26–28, 48, 83–84.[http://www.boeing.com/ospreynews/2011/issue_02/final_2011_2012_guidebook.pdf "V-22 Osprey Guidebook"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120811203535/http://www.boeing.com/ospreynews/2011/issue_02/final_2011_2012_guidebook.pdf |date=11 August 2012}} Naval Air Systems Command, United States Navy, 2011/2012, p. 5.
;SV-22: Proposed anti-submarine warfare variant. The U.S. Navy studied the SV-22 in the 1980s to replace S-3 and SH-2 aircraft.Norton 2004, pp. 28–30, 35, 48.
Operators
File:JGSDF V-22 and VMM-262 MV-22B at JGSDF Camp Kengun.jpg
;{{JPN}}
- Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (14 delivered, 3 on order as of Dec 2023){{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-becomes-first-v-22-export-customer-414638/ |title=Japan becomes first V-22 export customer |work=FlightGlobal |access-date=14 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715114658/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-becomes-first-v-22-export-customer-414638/ |archive-date=15 July 2015 |url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-67645072|title=US grounds entire Osprey fleet after fatal crash in Japan|last=Kim|first=Chloe|access-date=9 December 2023|work=BBC News|archive-date=9 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231209195753/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-67645072|url-status=live}}
File:MV-22 conducts external lift from USNS Sacagawea.JPG to {{USNS|Sacagawea|T-AKE-2|6}} |alt=An MV-22 Osprey with its rotors up to vertical with a HMMWV vehicle hanging by two sling wires.]]
;{{USA}}
- United States Air ForceWorld Air Forces 2014, FlightGlobal, January 2014.
- 7th Special Operations Squadron{{cite web|url=http://www2.afsoc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=224|title=352nd Special Operations Group|publisher=afsoc.af.mil|access-date=7 January 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081210124023/http://www2.afsoc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=224|archive-date=10 December 2008}}
- 8th Special Operations Squadron[http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=10482 "Fact Sheet: 8 Special Operations Squadron"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130225095421/http://www.afhra.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=10482 |date=25 February 2013}}. U.S. Air Force, 8 August 2008.
- 20th Special Operations Squadron[https://www.cannon.af.mil/News/story/id/123210132/ "CV-22 commencement of operations ceremony held"] . U.S. Air Force, 21 June 2010.
- 21st Special Operations Squadron[https://www.353sow.af.mil/News/Stories/Article/1893467/air-force-special-operations-command-stands-up-cv-22-squadron-in-japan/ "Air Force Special Operations Command stands up CV-22 squadron in Japan"]. U.S. Air Force, 1 July 2019.
- 71st Special Operations Squadron[https://web.archive.org/web/20070714181220/http://www.aetc.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=6200 "Fact Sheet: 71 Special Operations Squadron"]. U.S. Air Force, 3 January 2012.
- 249th Special Operations Squadron - Florida Air National Guard associate unit to 1st Special Operations Wing{{cite web |url=https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2334523/afsoc-activates-first-flang-cv-22-squadron/ |title=AFSOC activates first FLANG CV-22 squadron |date=28 August 2020 |access-date=24 January 2024 |archive-date=24 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240124143951/https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2334523/afsoc-activates-first-flang-cv-22-squadron/ |url-status=live}}
- 418th Flight Test Squadron{{cite web|url=https://www.edwards.af.mil/News/story/id/123061821/|title=418th FLTS tests CV-22 terrain-following radar in East Coast fog|work=af.mil|access-date=6 April 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150111233730/http://www.edwards.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123061821|archive-date=11 January 2015}}
File:Bell Boeing MV-22B Osprey '168284 - 02 - 3' (25992573793).jpg at RAF Mildenhall in 2016]]
File:CV-22 Osprey - RIAT 2015 (cropped).jpg in 2015]]
- United States Marine Corps
- HMX-1{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usmc-presidential-helicopter-squadron-starts-flying-mv-22-385449/|title=USMC presidential helicopter squadron starts flying MV-22|date=3 May 2013|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821193434/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usmc-presidential-helicopter-squadron-starts-flying-mv-22-385449/|archive-date=21 August 2016|url-status=live}}
- VMX-1 (formerly VMX-22){{cite web |url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/vmx22.html |title=VMX-22 Argonauts |publisher=tripod.com |access-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000415/http://hma1369.tripod.com/vmx22.html |archive-date=5 November 2013 |url-status=live}}
- VMM-161{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/161.html|title=VMM-161|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150112002728/http://hma1369.tripod.com/161.html|archive-date=12 January 2015|url-status=live}}
- VMM-162{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/162.html|title=VMM-165|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000421/http://hma1369.tripod.com/162.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-163{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/163.html|title=VMM-163|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150330024245/http://hma1369.tripod.com/163.html|archive-date=30 March 2015|url-status=live}}
- VMM-165{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/165.html|title=VMM-165|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000326/http://hma1369.tripod.com/165.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-166{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/166.html|title=VMM-166|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000328/http://hma1369.tripod.com/166.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMMT-204{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/204.html|title=VMMT-204|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000243/http://hma1369.tripod.com/204.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-261{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/261.html|title=VMM-261|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000423/http://hma1369.tripod.com/261.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-263{{cite web |url=http://www.mag26.marines.mil/MAG26Units/VMM263/About.aspx |title=VMM-263 |publisher=usmc.mil |access-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000021/http://www.mag26.marines.mil/MAG26Units/VMM263/About.aspx |archive-date=5 November 2013 |url-status=live}}
- VMM-264{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/264.html|title=VMM-264|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000418/http://hma1369.tripod.com/264.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-265{{Cite web|url=https://www.1stmaw.marines.mil/Subordinate-Units/Marine-Aircraft-Group-36/VMM-265/|title=1st Marine Aircraft Wing > Subordinate Units > Marine Aircraft Group 36 > VMM - 265|website=www.1stmaw.marines.mil}}
- VMM-266{{cite web|url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/266.html|title=VMM-266|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=5 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000330/http://hma1369.tripod.com/266.html|archive-date=5 November 2013|url-status=live}}
- VMM-268{{cite web|url=https://www.1stmaw.marines.mil/Subordinate-Units/Marine-Aircraft-Group-24/VMM-268/|title=VMM-268|publisher=tripod.com|access-date=25 September 2023|archive-date=2 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002203534/https://www.1stmaw.marines.mil/Subordinate-Units/Marine-Aircraft-Group-24/VMM-268/|url-status=live}}
- VMM-362{{cite web|url=https://news.usni.org/2018/08/17/marine-corps-reactivates-ugly-angels-mv-22-squadron|title=VMM-362|date=17 August 2018|access-date=31 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180901044344/https://news.usni.org/2018/08/17/marine-corps-reactivates-ugly-angels-mv-22-squadron|archive-date=1 September 2018|url-status=live}}
- VMM-363{{cite web |url=http://www.helis.com/database/news/vmm-363_okinawa/ |title=VMM-363 |publisher=helis.com |access-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000942/http://www.helis.com/database/news/vmm-363_okinawa/ |archive-date=5 November 2013 |url-status=live}}
- VMM-365{{cite web |url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/365.html |title=VMM-365 |publisher=tripod.com |access-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000333/http://hma1369.tripod.com/365.html |archive-date=5 November 2013 |url-status=live}}
- VMM-561{{cite web |url=http://hma1369.tripod.com/561.html |title=VMM-561 |publisher=tripod.com |access-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105000413/http://hma1369.tripod.com/561.html |archive-date=5 November 2013 |url-status=live}}
- VMM-764{{Cite web|url=https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Aircraft-Wing/Marine-Aircraft-Group-41/Marine-Medium-Tiltrotor-Squadron-764/|title=U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve > Units > 4th Marine Aircraft Wing > Marine Aircraft Group 41 > Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 764|website=www.marforres.marines.mil|access-date=24 January 2024|archive-date=23 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923153928/https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Aircraft-Wing/Marine-Aircraft-Group-41/Marine-Medium-Tiltrotor-Squadron-764/|url-status=live}} - Marine Air Reserve
- VMM-774{{Cite web|url=https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Aircraft-Wing/Marine-Aircraft-Group-49/Marine-Medium-Tiltrotor-Squadron-774/|title=VMM-774|website=www.marforres.marines.mil|access-date=24 January 2024|archive-date=23 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923082116/https://www.marforres.marines.mil/Units/4th-Marine-Aircraft-Wing/Marine-Aircraft-Group-49/Marine-Medium-Tiltrotor-Squadron-774/|url-status=live}} - Marine Air Reserve
- United States Navy – 44 CMV-22Bs ordered, with deliveries started in 2020.
- HX-21{{Cite web |url=https://www.navy.mil/view_image.asp?id=305955 |title=Navy.mil - View Image |access-date=10 February 2020 |archive-date=10 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200210172225/https://www.navy.mil/view_image.asp?id=305955 |url-status=dead}}
- VRM-30{{Cite news|last=Fuentes|first=Gidget|date=2 August 2021|title=First F-35C Fighters, CMV-22B Deploy with Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group|work=USNI News|url=https://news.usni.org/2021/08/02/first-f-35c-fighters-cmv-22b-deploy-with-carl-vinson-carrier-strike-group|access-date=2 August 2021|archive-date=2 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802220731/https://news.usni.org/2021/08/02/first-f-35c-fighters-cmv-22b-deploy-with-carl-vinson-carrier-strike-group|url-status=live}}
- VRM-40
- VRM-50
Accidents
{{main|Accidents and incidents involving the V-22 Osprey}}
The V-22 Osprey has had 16 hull-loss accidents with a total of 62 fatalities {{As of|2023|11|29|lc=y}}. During testing from 1991 to 2000, there were four crashes causing 30 fatalities. {{As of|2023}}, the V-22 has had 13 crashes which caused 32 fatalities since becoming operational in 2007.{{cite web |title=Aviation Safety Database results |website=Aviation Safety Network |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/dblist.php?AcType=V22 |access-date=29 November 2023 |archive-date=15 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180715181220/https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/dblist.php?AcType=V22 |url-status=live}} Updated as incidents occur. The aircraft's accident history has generated controversy over its perceived safety issues.Axe, David. [https://www.wired.com/2012/10/air-force-silenced-general/ "General: 'My Career Was Done' When I Criticized Flawed Warplane"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181217165912/https://www.wired.com/2012/10/air-force-silenced-general/ |date=17 December 2018}} Wired, 4 October 2012. Following the November 2023 crash in Japan,{{Cite web |last=Britzky |first=Haley |date=7 December 2023 |title=US military grounds Osprey fleet after crash off coast of Japan kills 8 US airmen |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/06/politics/us-military-osprey-fleet-grounded-crash-japan/index.html |access-date=26 April 2024 |work=CNN Politics |language=en}} the Osprey was grounded for three months.{{Cite web |last=Britzky |first=Haley |date=8 March 2024 |title=US military lifts 3-month grounding of V-22 Osprey fleet after deadly crash |work= CNN Politics |url=https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/08/politics/v-22-osprey/index.html |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en}}
Aircraft on display
- 163911 – MV-22B on display at the Aviation Memorial at Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina.{{cite news |last1=Lingafelt |first1=Jared |title=MV-22 dedicated to Aviation Memorial |url=http://www.camplejeuneglobe.com/news/mv--dedicated-to-aviation-memorial/article_32c2d6d2-652a-11e4-80c0-001a4bcf6878.html |access-date=18 July 2022 |work=The Globe |date=6 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180929122743/http://www.camplejeuneglobe.com/news/mv--dedicated-to-aviation-memorial/article_32c2d6d2-652a-11e4-80c0-001a4bcf6878.html |archive-date=29 September 2018}}{{cite web |title=c/n D0015 |url=http://www.helis.com/database/cn/1838 |website=helis.com |access-date=2 July 2019 |archive-date=2 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702033943/https://www.helis.com/database/cn/1838 |url-status=live}}
- 163913 – V-22A on display at the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center in West Chester, Pennsylvania.{{cite web |title=Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey |url=https://americanhelicopter.museum/aircraft/bell-boeing-v-22-osprey/ |website=American Helicopter Museum & Education Center |access-date=16 December 2021 |archive-date=16 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211216223209/https://americanhelicopter.museum/aircraft/bell-boeing-v-22-osprey/ |url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=c/n D0003 |url=http://www.helis.com/database/cn/1334 |website=helis.com |access-date=2 July 2019 |archive-date=2 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702034323/https://www.helis.com/database/cn/1334 |url-status=live}}
- 99-0021 (formerly 164939) – CV-22B on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio.{{cite web |title=Bell-Boeing CV-22B Osprey |url=https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/579628/bell-boeing-cv-22b-osprey/ |website=National Museum of the US Air Force |access-date=16 December 2021 |archive-date=16 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211216223209/https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/579628/bell-boeing-cv-22b-osprey/ |url-status=live}}
- 164940 – MV-22B on display at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum in Lexington Park, Maryland.{{cite web |title=Meet The Airplane - V-22 Osprey at the Pax Museum |url=https://www.somdnews.com/calendar/enterprise/meet-the-airplane---v-22-osprey-at-the-pax-museum/event_20c8d702-af02-11e9-9e3d-379e55e3962b.html |website=Southern Maryland News |date=24 August 2019 |access-date=18 July 2022 |archive-date=5 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605125525/https://www.somdnews.com/calendar/enterprise/meet-the-airplane---v-22-osprey-at-the-pax-museum/event_20c8d702-af02-11e9-9e3d-379e55e3962b.html |url-status=live}}
Specifications (MV-22B)
File:Bell Boeing MV-22 Osprey line drawing.svg
File:MV-22B combat radius in Iraq compared with CH-46E combat radius.svg's smaller combat radius]]
File:Riat 2023 - U.S.Air Force - Boeing-Bell V-22 Osprey NZ9 8346 (53070304572).jpg
File:CV-22 Osprey flies over the Emerald Coast.JPG. |alt= A front view of a U.S. Air Force CV-22 with its rotors facing forward flys by the Emerald Coast]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= Norton,Norton 2004, pp. 110–111. Boeing,[http://www.boeing.com/defense/v-22-osprey/#/technical-specifications "V-22 Osprey: Technical Specifications"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151108012334/http://www.boeing.com/defense/v-22-osprey#/technical-specifications |date=8 November 2015}} Boeing Defense, Space and Security. Retrieved: 14 November 2015. Bell Guide, Naval Air Systems Command,[https://web.archive.org/web/20060818122215/http://www.navair.navy.mil/V22/?fuseaction=aircraft.main "V-22 Characteristics"]. Naval Air Systems Command. Retrieved 25 November 2008. and USAF CV-22 fact sheet
|prime units?=kts
|crew= 3–4 (pilot, copilot and 1 or 2 flight engineers/crew chiefs/loadmasters/gunners)
|capacity=
- 24 troops (seated), 32 troops (floor loaded), or
- {{convert|20,000|lb|kg}} of internal cargo, or up to {{convert|15,000|lb|kg}} of external cargo (dual hook)
- 1× M1161 Growler light internally transportable ground vehiclePincus, Walter. [https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/02/AR2009020202969.html "Marines' New Ride Rolls Out Years Late"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728214841/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/02/AR2009020202969.html |date=28 July 2017}} The Washington Post, 3 February 2009.White, Andrew. [https://archive.today/20120629160852/http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/6615/ "USAF seeks special operations CSAR vehicle"]. Shephard Group, 24 June 2010.
|length ft=57
|length in=4
|length note=Length folded: {{cvt|62|ft|7.6|in}}
|span ft=45
|span in=10
|span note=
|width ft=84
|width in=6.8
|width note=including rotors
- Width folded: {{cvt|18|ft|5|in}}
|height ft=22
|height in=1
|height note=engine nacelles vertical;
:::{{cvt|17|ft|7.8|in|0}} to top of tailfins
- Height folded: {{cvt|18|ft|1|in}}
|wing area sqft=301.4
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=
|airfoil=
|empty weight lb=31818
|empty weight note=
- Operating weight, empty: {{cvt|32623|lb|0}}
|gross weight lb=39500
|gross weight note=
- Combat weight: {{cvt|42712|lb|0}}
- Maximum take-off weight VTO: {{cvt|47500|lb|0}}
- Maximum take-off weight STO: {{cvt|55000|lb|0}}
- Maximum take-off weight STO, ferry: {{cvt|60500|lb|0}}
|max takeoff weight lb=
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity= Ferry maximum: {{cvt|4451|USgal|impgal L}} of JP-4 / JP-5 / JP-8 to MIL-T-5624
|more general=
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=Rolls-Royce T406-AD-400
|eng1 type=turboprop/turboshaft engines
|eng1 hp=6150
|eng1 note=maximum at 15,000 rpm at sea level, {{cvt|59|F|C}}
::{{cvt|5890|hp|0}} maximum continuous at 15,000 rpm at sea level, {{cvt|59|F|C}}
|rot number=2
|rot dia ft=38
|rot area sqft=2268
|rot area note=3-bladed
|max speed kts=275
::{{convert|305|kn|km/h mph|abbr=on|sigfig=3}} at {{convert|15000|ft|m|abbr=on|sigfig=2}}Norton 2004, p. 111.
|cruise speed kts=
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed kts=110
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|range nmi=879
|range note=
|combat range nmi=390
|combat range note=
|ferry range nmi=2230
|ferry range note=
|endurance=
|ceiling ft=25000
|ceiling note=
|g limits=+4 max / -1 min
|roll rate=
|climb rate ftmin=2320–4000
|time to altitude=
|wing loading lb/sqft=20.9
|wing loading note=at {{cvt|47500|lb|0}}
|disc loading lb/sqft=
|disc loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.259|hp/lb}}
|thrust/weight=
|more performance=
|armament=* 1 × 7.62 mm (.308 in) M240 machine gun or .50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine gun on ramp, removable
- 1 × 7.62 mm (.308 in) GAU-17 minigun, belly-mounted, retractable, video remote control in the Remote Guardian System [optional][http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Air-Launched-Weapons/Remote-Guardian-System-RGS-United-States.html "Remote Guardian System (RGS) (United States), Guns – Integral and mounted"]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503102735/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Air-Launched-Weapons/Remote-Guardian-System-RGS-United-States.html |date=3 May 2012}} Jane's Information Group, 28 April 2010.
|avionics=
- AN/ARC-182 VHF/UHF radio
- KY-58 VHF/UHF encryption
- ANDVT HF encryption
- AN/AAR-47 Missile Approach Warning System
- AN/AYK-14 Mission Computers
- APQ-168 Multifunction radar
- Directional Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM){{Cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/32309/osprey-rear-ramps-and-carrier-aircraft-elevators-make-for-great-fast-rope-training |title=MV-22 Osprey Rear Ramps And Carrier Aircraft Elevators Make For Great Fast Rope Training |access-date=28 November 2023 |last=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=20 February 2020 |archive-date=22 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922092000/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/32309/osprey-rear-ramps-and-carrier-aircraft-elevators-make-for-great-fast-rope-training |url-status=live}}
}}
Notable appearances in media
{{main|Aircraft in fiction#V-22 Osprey|l1= V-22 Osprey in fiction|l2=}}
See also
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
|similar aircraft=
|lists=
}}
References
{{Reflist}}
=Bibliography=
{{Refbegin}}
- Markman, Steve and Bill Holder. "Bell/Boeing V-22 Osprey Tilt-Engine VTOL Transport (U.S.A.)". Straight Up: A History of Vertical Flight. Atglen, Pennsylvania: Schiffer Publishing, 2000. {{ISBN|0-7643-1204-9}}.
- Norton, Bill. Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey, Tiltrotor Tactical Transport. Earl Shilton, Leicester, UK: Midland Publishing, 2004. {{ISBN|1-85780-165-2}}.
- O'Hanlon, Michael E. [https://books.google.com/books?id=0hCNDS-nGfAC Defense Policy Choices for the Bush Administration] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125033116/https://books.google.com/books?id=0hCNDS-nGfAC |date=25 January 2024}}. Washington, D.C.: Brookings Institution Press, 2002. {{ISBN|0-8157-6437-5}}.
- Schinasi, Katherine V. [https://books.google.com/books?id=DGLYzFGTAlYC Defense Acquisitions: Readiness of the Marine Corps' V-22 Aircraft for Full-Rate Production] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125033117/https://books.google.com/books?id=DGLYzFGTAlYC |date=25 January 2024}}. Darby, Pennsylvania: Diane Publishing, 2008. {{ISBN|1-4289-4682-9}}.
- Whittle, Richard. [https://books.google.com/books?id=_9Asc0bgm_cC The Dream Machine: The Untold History of the Notorious V-22 Osprey] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125033114/https://books.google.com/books?id=_9Asc0bgm_cC |date=25 January 2024}}. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2010. {{ISBN|1-4165-6295-8}}.
{{Refend}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- [https://www.bellflight.com/products/bell-boeing-v-22 Official Bell V-22 page]
- [https://www.boeing.com/defense/v-22-osprey/ Official Boeing V-22 page]
{{Bell Aircraft}}
{{Boeing Vertol}}
{{US STOL and VTOL aircraft}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Good article}}
Category:Turboshaft-powered aircraft
Category:Articles containing video clips