CV-22

CV-22 RDT&E funding supports the development integration, and testing of service-common, mission critical aircraft modifications to improve operational effectiveness, platform survivability, and aircraft availability. The Air Force Special Operations Forces (SOF) variant of the joint multi-mission V-22 tilt rotor aircraft provides long-range, high-speed infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply to Special Forces teams in hostile, denied, and politically sensitive areas. The program aims to enhance airframe structures, aircraft electro-mechanical hardware, and dynamic components to counteract the effects of structural fatigue and improve the durability and readiness of V-22 aircraft. Additionally, it focuses on developing capabilities to enhance self-deployment such as improved ice protection, engine performance, navigation, communications, situational awareness, electronic warfare, and other changes to the underlying aircraft systems necessary to enable these capabilities.

The CV-22 RDT&E program is a joint effort involving the Department of the Navy (DoN), United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), and the Air Force. DoN funds the development of the MV-22 and CMV-22 variants while the Air Force funds the service common portion of the CV-22. USSOCOM funds the development and procurement of SOF peculiar systems. The program's specific objectives include refining aircraft system components to improve longevity and maintainability while protecting their performance to allow continued CV-22 operation as the aircraft age. It also aims to develop enhanced self-deployment capabilities such as improved ice protection, engine performance, navigation, communications, situational awareness, electronic warfare, and other changes to the underlying aircraft systems necessary to enable these capabilities. The program also supports innovation activities including studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes/demonstrations to accelerate planning for technology transition and future acquisition programs.