Air Force Launches Review of CV-22 Force After Deadly Crash and Osprey Fleet Grounding
In the wake of a tragic crash that claimed the lives of eight airmen, the United States Air Force has initiated a comprehensive review of its CV-22 force. This decision comes as the entire fleet of Ospreys, the aircraft involved in the crash, has been grounded by the Pentagon. The purpose of the review is to assess whether the CV-22 force is appropriately organized, trained, and equipped for safe and effective special operations. Air Force Special Operations Command chief, Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, announced the launch of this review at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium.
Alongside the comprehensive review, two additional investigations are being conducted to determine the cause of the crash. The first is a safety investigation board, while the second is an accident investigation board. Of these two, only the findings from the accident investigation board will be made public. Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind refrained from speculating on the root cause or conclusions of these investigations, emphasizing the need for thoroughness and caution.
While the Ospreys remain grounded, Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind assured that alternative measures are in place to meet operational requirements. Although he did not disclose which aircraft are currently being utilized, he acknowledged leveraging other joint force capabilities to ensure mission readiness. Among the Pentagon’s other aircraft that can fulfill similar lift needs are the CH-53 and CH-47.
Despite their grounding, the Ospreys play a vital role in military operations. However, Air Force Special Operations Command recognizes that this aircraft utilizes 1980s technology and is exploring options for the next generation of capability. One potential contender is an experimental vertical takeoff and landing aircraft being developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). This aircraft boasts significantly faster speeds than the Osprey. Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind expressed confidence in DARPA’s ability to solve complex problems but cautioned that production would take time once the concept is proven.
In the meantime, the Marine Corps, which heavily relies on the V-22 Osprey, is facing an operational gap due to the grounding. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, currently deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean, is unable to utilize their Ospreys. However, should a crisis arise, the Marine Corps possesses the necessary authorities to resume V-22 operations. To ensure readiness during this period, Osprey pilots are being rotated through flight simulators to maintain their familiarity with the platform.
Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Christopher Mahoney, reiterated his unwavering confidence in the Osprey, emphasizing that his confidence in the aircraft remains “extremely high.” Despite the operational challenges caused by the grounding, the Marine Corps is prepared to resume flight operations as soon as clearance is granted.
As investigations continue to determine the cause of the fatal crash and evaluate the CV-22 force, both the Air Force and Marine Corps remain committed to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of their special operations capabilities. While questions linger about the future of the Osprey and the pursuit of next-generation aircraft, these military branches are united in their dedication to upholding the highest standards of training and equipment for their personnel.
In conclusion, the tragic crash that claimed the lives of eight airmen has prompted a comprehensive review of the CV-22 force by the Air Force. With the Osprey fleet grounded, alternative measures are being employed to fulfill operational requirements. Both the Air Force and Marine Corps are actively investigating the cause of the crash and remain steadfast in their commitment to the safety and effectiveness of their special operations capabilities.
