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Evolving
Foreign Interest in V-22 Ramps Up
by Bettina H. Chavanne, Aviation Week & Space Technology
Reprinted with Permission
Boeing Photo by Fred Troilo
U.S. Naval Air Systems Command introduced about 30 people from 12 nations to the V-22 Osprey at a recent embassy day, Marine Corps Col. Greg Masiello, V-22 program manager, tells AVIATION WEEK.
Visiting nations hosted at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md., were provided with program briefs, a fleet operating perspective by a V-22 pilot and a flight demonstration. It was "a resounding success," Masiello says. "We've had a surge in queries now and I expect more interest and discussions."
Interest in the V-22 is not limited to other countries. U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (Afsoc) may soon increase its planned purchase of 50 CV-22 Osprey tiltrotors, Masiello says. "I have indications that additional aircraft will be bought for the Afsoc mission."
The aggressive production schedule set for the aircraft has resulted in increased production capability, which Masiello believes Afsoc will exploit, as may other agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and foreign customers.