US Navy’s CMV-22B reaches initial operational capability

February 21, 2022, by Fatima Bahtić

The US Navy has announced the initial operational capability (IOC) for the CMV-22B Osprey, confirming the platform’s operational readiness following the successful completion of its maiden deployment.

The aircraft was formally declared IOC on 14 December 2021, while the maiden deployment was completed on 17 February 2022.

“The CMV-22’s maiden deployment with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 and the [USS Carl] Vinson (CVN 70) team is an operational success, giving me the confidence necessary to make the declaration,” said Rear Adm. Andrew Loiselle, Director, Air Warfare Division, N98, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.

The navy noted that the IOC’s designation marks a key milestone in the design, development, acquisition and testing of the CMV-22B and confirms its relevance and readiness to meet the needs of the Navy’s Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) mission.

The aircraft transports personnel, mail, supplies and cargo from shore bases to aircraft carriers at sea, and will eventually replace the C-2A Greyhound.

With 50% more internal fuel than the Marine Corps’ Osprey variant, CMV-22B can transport up to 6,000 pounds of cargo and personnel over a 1,150 nautical mile range. The navy redesigned the forward sponson fuel tanks and added two wing fuel tanks to add capacity and extend the flight range.

This past summer marked the first deployment for the CMV-22B. Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30 embarked on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) alongside the F-35C Lightning II and E-2D Advanced Hawkeye squadrons. The first deployed detachment has executed a mission completion rate of 98% and a mission capable rate of 75%.

“This aircraft went from first flight to first deployment in 19 months; a feat possible through the dedication of the Navy’s acquisition, engineering, test and operational communities, as well as industry, all working in tandem, toward a common goal,” said US Marine Corps Col. Brian Taylor, V-22 Joint program manager.

The program will continue to refine and test capabilities on the aircraft, addressing the agile needs of the fleet. So far, 14 out of 44 aircraft have been delivered and the full operational capability is expected in 2023.