The V-22 Osprey had a “coming out” of sorts on July 13 when VMX-22, the U.S. Marine Corps Tiltrotor Test and Evaluation Squadron in New River, N.C., hosted media from around the nation.

The event was held to share highlights of the recently completed Operational Test and Evaluation (OPEVAL) and provide a look at where the program currently is and what milestones are yet to come. Those in attendance had the experience of a lifetime when they became some of the first non-government personnel to fly on board a V-22.

“The VMX-22 squadron, led by Col. Glenn Walters, did an impressive job in executing this successful OPEVAL,” said John Lockard, vice president and general manager, Boeing Naval Systems. “Boeing and Bell are proud to have been a part of that success by providing a quality product to conduct the tests. We are looking forward to moving into full rate production.”

During OPEVAL, the aircraft was put into “real world” scenarios aimed at evaluating the V-22s operational effectiveness and suitability. Successful completion of this critical phase of testing is required to support a full-rate production decision, scheduled for late September.

Bell Helicopter CEO Michael Redenbaugh, who attended the event, expressed enormous admiration for the dedicated pilots and maintainers from VMX-22 who have worked so diligently during the strenuous OPEVAL program. “This is truly a historic moment for the Osprey program and all of us are anxious to begin full-rate production to get this magnificent tiltrotor into the hands of our Marine customers.”

Contributing to the V-22 program’s progress are the many cost reduction initiatives under way at Boeing, Bell and throughout the supplier base aimed at bringing unit cost to $58 million by 2010. Both Boeing and Bell Helicopter are committed to support a multi-year procurement plan which is an important element of the V-22 programs overall affordability strategy and a significant step towards future program stability.