Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey one of the most interesting and utilitarian aircraft of today has been grounded after one crashed into the sea off Yakushima Island, Kagoshima prefecture, Japan November 30, 2023 and 8 airmen perished. This aircraft was first introduced to the US Military in 2009 after extensive production and testing. This both vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL); short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities and is a combination helicopter/aircraft.
As of 2019 375 V-22 Ospreys are operated by the US Armed Forces.
Marred in Controversy
One issue was the large cost increases, some of which were caused by a requirement to fold wings and rotors to fit aboard ships. 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.
16 V-22 Osprey been damaged beyond repair in accidents that have killed a total of 62 people. Four crashed killed a total of 30 people during testing from 1991 to 2000.
The US Military and Japan Self-Defense Forces are the only ones flying the V-22's. All Ospreys have been grounded until further notice.
Have you ever seen a V-22 Osprey? What do you think of this aircraft?
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