Cannon AFB partners with Bell Boeing to improve the CV-22

The nacelle is responsible for the Osprey’s critical vertical take-off and landing capabilities, and the ability to shift into forward flight.  Since roughly 60 per cent of CV-22 maintenance occurs in the nacelle, technicians from the 727th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron are collaborating with Bell Boeing to ensure the modifications result in a more dependable, less costly aircraft to maintain.

“We are working closely with Bell Boeing to provide real-time feedback to help improve the outcome of future nacelle improved CV-22 aircraft. We are optimistic these ongoing changes will increase flying time while decreasing the maintenance manhours needed to ensure the aircraft’s readiness,” said 727 SOAMXS Chief Master Sergeant Sean Ellenburg.

Partnership allows product to be better

Sonja Clark, Bell Amarillo Site Leader, added: “It’s a huge sense of pride knowing we get to partner with a customer. Their mission is our mission. It was truly through the partnership and utilizing their direct feedback that is allowing us to make our product better.”

Nacelle improvements aim to increase the CV-22 aircrew flying hours needed to advance training capabilities while preparing for full-spectrum operations that address global adversarial threats.

“For over a decade, the CV-22 has provided unique and unrivaled special operations capabilities to the joint force. We look forward to how the nacelle improvements will increase the Osprey’s readiness, making us even more prepared to face tomorrow’s security challenges,” said Lt Col Jonathan Ball, 20th Special Operations Squadron Commander at Cannon Air Force Base.