MV-22B Osprey

The MV-22B is a tilt-rotor aircraft operated by the United States Marine Corps (USMC) that exhibits flight characteristics of both a helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft.

A MV-22B Osprey with rotors tilted in forward-flight configuration.

The USMC uses the MV-22B as an amphibious troop and cargo transport. It can operate from Navy ships and fills a role similar to the CH-46E and CH-53D medium-lift helicopters that it is replacing.

The revolutionary tilt-rotor design of the MV-22B means that the aircraft can perform vertical and very-short take off and landings then transition to a forward flight configuration at a speed comparable to a C-130 aircraft. The MV-22B features a retractable refueling probe for mid-air refueling.

The MV-22B can carry up to 24 fully-laden Marines or 12 litters.

Mv-22 Osprey Video

MV-22B Osprey Specifications

An MV-22B carrying a M-777 howitzer as an under slung load. The aircraft can lift up to 15,000lbs on its dual cargo hooks.

The MV-22B features an advanced glass cockpit with 2 Multi Function Displays per pilot with a shared central display.

The MV-22B has a hydraulic rear ramp for loading/off-loading troops and stores.

MV-22B FEATURES tilt-rotor design rescue hoist capable of lifting 600lbs FLIR sensor folding rotors for stowing on ships capable of in-flight refueling from tankers able to carry heavy under-slung loads defensive countermeasures

Unlike the unarmed USAF CV-22 Osprey, the USMC MV-22B is armed with a M240 machine gun attached to a collapsible mount on the tail ramp.

U.S. Dod photo by Cpl. Sheila M. Brooks

3 MV-22B Ospreys assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), land at an airport in Jordan.

U.S. Dod photo by Cpl. George J. Papastrat

MV-22B PHOTOS :

(click thumbnails for fullsize images)
photo gallery : CV-22 / MV-22 Ospreys