Making a Good Aircraft Even Better: Osprey Modernization

[rangerrebew]

Making a Good Aircraft Even Better: Osprey Modernization
06/10/2024

By Jo Ann Y. Williams, Ed.D.

Attending SOF Week 2024 in Tampa recently made me reflect on the V-22 Osprey program’s past triumphs and challenges, as well as its future.

Over a decade ago, I was part of a team that helped train Osprey pilots. Many of today’s Osprey squadron commanders are those pilots. With V-22 production winding down and much discussion involving modernization, it’s now time to start thinking hard about what comes next for the Osprey.

“There’s a ton of life left in this platform, and there’s a ton of mission left in this platform,” said Marine Col. Brian Taylor, the V-22 program manager. He recently outlined his thoughts publicly on a long-term plan for modernizing the V-22.

For the sake of the safety, availability and affordability of the Osprey going forward, congressional leaders and senior officials in the Pentagon should give considerable thought to his words, which were revealing.

https://sldinfo.com/2024/06/making-a-good-aircraft-even-better-osprey-modernization/

[rangerrebew]

With its extensive history of crashes, I thought it was a lemon.  I stand corrected and apologize.

[rangerrebew]

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2024/06/12/congress-still-waiting-on-osprey-crash-safety-documents-from-pentagon/

[DB]

With its extensive history of crashes, I thought it was a lemon.  I stand corrected and apologize.

It's a complex machine that has very unique capabilities. It loses its ability fly when things fail quicker than most aircraft.