The Osprey's Real Problem Isn't Safety—It's Money
"The White House's proposed 2013 budget trims 24 aircraft (from 122 to 98) over five years, saving $1.75 billion. But those orders could be reinstated during negotiations of the Pentagon's contract with Osprey maker Bell-Boeing. The fact that the Osprey has escaped the budget ax's deepest cuts confirms its improved reputation within the military."
http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military/planes-uavs/the-ospreys-real-problem-isnt-safety-its-money-8347657
So, cut some from the US budget, and sell 'em to Israel. They'll be there if we need 'em. With trained Israeli pilots who know the terrain and the drill.
Obama happy. Bell-Boeing happy. Israel happy.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3009903/posts
“The Osprey is a staple within our fleet. It has proven itself in the most difficult environments as a capable and reliable asset,” Ulsh said, noting that including the Osprey in the HMX-1 fleet “highlights the maturity of the technology and safety of the aircraft.”
Interesting,, with such a mature and safe aircraft, sounds like it should be flying Obama around too,,,right? Right?
They're working on it. USA to approve V-22 sale to Israel
I don’t think any case can be made at all for cutting procurement of the V-22 at this point. The aircraft is as successful in operational use as its advocates had said it would be, for decades now. It’s price is high but coming down steadily as the manufacturers learn to produce it efficiently. The multi-year procurement contracts dramatically reduce costs and ensure vendor-base stability and thus quality. System upgrades and capability improvements are coming regularly. A better argument can be made for cutting the gargantuan F-35 procurement program. They entered production too early and ramped up too fast by several years, IMO.
TC