The Air Force Special Operations Command is gearing up to deploy its fleet of CV-22B Osprey aircraft for counter terror operations after a fatal crash in Japan last November prompted a grounding of its crews. The command's top commander revealed that the deployment is just weeks away.
Following the tragic crash that claimed the lives of eight service members, the command has conducted a thorough review of the challenges faced by the Osprey fleet. The aircraft, known for its unique ability to fly like both a helicopter and an airplane, has experienced four fatal crashes in the past two years, resulting in the loss of 20 service members.
Reports have highlighted mechanical and safety issues plaguing the Osprey, prompting multiple ongoing reviews to assess the resources required to enhance its reliability. Recent investigations revealed that two of the fatal crashes were caused in part by unprecedented parts failures, including a crack in a pinion gear that led to catastrophic consequences.
Lt. Gen. Mike Conley emphasized that the issues that kept the fleet grounded are distinct from those that initially led to the grounding. Despite the challenges, approximately 60% of the command's 51 CV-22B aircraft have already returned to full flying status, with the remaining expected to be operational by late 2024 or early 2025.
Conley noted that the overseas wings in Japan and England are nearing full mission readiness, with plans to deploy the Osprey aircraft to remote locations in the near future. However, each Osprey will continue to operate under flight restrictions imposed by Naval Air Systems Command, mandating that the aircraft remain within 30 minutes of a suitable landing site at all times.
