Strategy, Tactical, Leadership, and Technology

The V-22 is a versatile medium-lift vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) tilt-rotor aircraft utilized by the Air Force and Marine Corps. Specifically, the Air Force's CV-22Bs, employed by the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), boast advanced features, including a fully integrated precision navigation suite, a digital cockpit management system, FLIR (Forward-Looking Infrared), integrated NVG (Night Vision Goggles) HUD (Head-Up Display), TFffA radar, digital map system, robust self-defense avionics, and secure anti-jam communications. The CV-22 made its inaugural deployment to Africa in November 2008 and saw combat for the first time in Iraq in 2009. Its primary mission involves clandestine, long-range, all-weather penetration of denied areas to execute operations such as infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply for Special Operations Forces (SOF). The CV-22 is designed for seamless operation from various platforms, including land bases, austere forward operating locations, and air-capable ships, without requiring reconfiguration. Additionally, it is fully equipped to function under challenging nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) warfare conditions. Ongoing enhancements include new cabin lighting, helmet-mounted displays, IR searchlight, lightweight ballistic armor, electronic warfare (EW), and situational awareness improvements. The integration of the Silent Knight TFffA radar, slated for the MC-130J, will replace the CV-22's legacy system, providing a more stealthy, low-altitude night and all-weather navigation radar. The Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) commenced in FY16, and the 10 Europe-based CV-22s are scheduled to shift to Spangdahlem AB, Germany, with the planned closure of RAF Mildenhall, UK. The final production CV-22s are expected to be delivered in 2016, bringing the total fleet to 50 airframes.