The Bell Boeing Joint Project Office in Amarillo, Texas, has secured a $482.3 million fixed-price incentive contract modification to produce and deliver four CMV-22B (Lot 27) aircraft for the US Navy.
The CMV-22B Osprey, an advanced tiltrotor V/STOL aircraft, replaces the C-2A Greyhound for the Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) mission. It significantly enhances the Navy’s operational flexibility by providing time-sensitive combat logistics support during shore-based, expeditionary, and sea-based operations.
The CMV-22B serves as the Navy’s long-range/medium-lift aerial logistics solution, addressing the Joint Force Maritime Component Commander’s (JFMCC) time-critical logistics air connector requirements. It transports personnel, mail, and priority cargo from advanced bases to the Seabase.
The Navy variant improves upon the MV-22B by offering an extended operational range, a beyond line-of-sight HF radio, an enhanced fuel dump capability, a public address system for passengers, and improved cargo loading lighting. It is capable of transporting up to 6,000 pounds of cargo/personnel over a 1,150 nautical mile range.
The CMV-22B reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in December 2021. Although the Program projects 48 CMV-22s, the Navy currently plans to procure only 44 aircraft.
Key specifications of the CMV-22B Osprey include:
- Primary Function: Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) for personnel, mail, supplies, and high-priority cargo from shore bases to aircraft carriers at sea
- Propulsion: Two Rolls-Royce Liberty AE1107C engines, each delivering 6,200 shaft horsepower
- Dimensions: Length – 57′ 4″, Height – 22′ 1″, Wingspan – 83′ 10″
- Weight: Maximum vertical takeoff weight – 52,600 lbs, Maximum rolling takeoff weight – 60,500 lbs
- Crew: 4 (pilot, copilot, two crew chiefs), with capacity for 24 troops
The CMV-22B’s Full Operational Capability is slated for 2023. The The ACAT IC Program’s contract, awarded by the Naval Air Systems Command, will see work executed across multiple locations within and outside the US, with completion expected by June 2026.
