CV-22 Mods

The CV-22 Mods program is a line item in the Air Force's Aircraft Procurement budget, specifically focused on the modification of in-service CV-22 Osprey aircraft. The CV-22 is the Air Force Special Operations Forces (SOF) variant of the V-22 tiltrotor, designed for long-range, high-speed infiltration, exfiltration, personnel recovery, and resupply missions in hostile or denied areas.

The overarching goal of the CV-22 Mods program is to ensure that the fleet of 56 CV-22 aircraft remains operationally effective, safe, and technologically current throughout its intended 30-year, 10,000-hour service life. This is achieved through a combination of major capability upgrades, reliability improvements, survivability enhancements, and low-cost modifications.

The primary focus of the FY 2026 budget request is the Block 20 V2 (Capability Improvement) modification, which includes significant upgrades to the proprotor gearbox (PRGB). The PRGB is being improved with triple-melted steel to reduce the likelihood of material defects in critical gears and bearings, directly enhancing safety, reliability, and operational readiness across the V-22 fleet.

This modification also incorporates a range of engineering change proposals (ECPs) that address readiness, safety, and maintainability issues identified during operational testing and field operations. The Block 20 program further supports the implementation of production kits and equipment resulting from related research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) projects, such as nacelle modifications and enhanced self-deployment capabilities.

Within the Block 20 V2 effort, three major categories of modifications are funded: capability, reliability, and survivability. Capability modifications focus on enabling new mission sets and improving aircraft systems, such as enhanced ice protection, navigation, communications, and cyber security measures. Reliability modifications target the improvement of airframe structures, dynamic components (including the PRGB and rotor systems), and critical subsystems like hydraulics and landing gear to counteract structural fatigue and extend aircraft life. Survivability modifications enhance defensive systems, avionics, and armor to increase crew and aircraft protection in contested environments. These modifications are installed using a combination of contractor field teams and organic maintenance resources to maximize efficiency and minimize aircraft downtime.

In addition to major upgrades, the Low Cost Modifications (LCM) line provides funding for smaller-scale modifications necessary to maintain operational safety, suitability, and effectiveness of both the CV-22 weapon system and its associated training devices. These modifications are typically less complex but address urgent or emerging needs that arise from field experience or changes in operational requirements. The LCM line ensures that the CV-22 fleet can rapidly adapt to evolving threats and mission demands without waiting for larger, more comprehensive upgrade cycles.

The CV-22 Mods program is managed in coordination with the Navy, which serves as the lead service for the joint V-22 program, and with United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), which funds SOF-specific systems. The Air Force funds service-common modifications, while cost-sharing arrangements are in place for non-recurring engineering efforts that benefit all V-22 variants.

The program also addresses Diminishing Manufacturing Source (DMS) and component obsolescence issues, ensuring that critical parts and systems remain available and supportable throughout the aircraft's life cycle. Supporting activities funded under this line item include program support costs, advisory and assistance services, system integration labs, trainers, equipment, and other government costs.

The FY 2026 request reflects a reduction in advisory and assistance services in alignment with government efficiency initiatives, specifically Executive Order 14222. This demonstrates a commitment to cost control and administrative efficiency while maintaining focus on essential modernization and sustainment activities.