It's a bird, it's a plane...part 2
A few years ago I wrote about the V22, after it was (finally) fielded...in Iraq, as a matter of fact.
Of course, the last combat unit has departed Iraq, and the focus has returned to the war in Afghanistan...so naturally, that's where the V22 squadron has been tasked nowadays.
The pictures I'm posting herein are from there.
Based upon the feedback that we have been receiving in the Military-Industrial Complex™, they are continuing to exceed expectations...
posted by camojack | 08:09
7 Comments:
I never had any hope these things would really prove out, but I understand they've been pretty successful. The Marines were operating them in Iraq when I left, and on nights when they'd fly in from Anbar soldiers would go out just to watch. They're strange birds.
I can't make up my mind whether it is beautiful or ugly. It could be some strange bird of prey or a graceful insect.Guessit doesn't matter as long as it works and is effective.god bless those bug/birds andthose who make them work.
Good to hear that they're working out. And thanks for your service in helping to put them together.
(:D) Best regards...
God help whoever's on board if the Marines actually decide to use the beast the way they claim they need to use it -- because it can't do what they say they bought it to do, and they can't fix the problem they have with the props going into a vortex-ring state in a helicopter style descent.
I watched one going into our medevac pad last year. It took two full minutes to travel 100 meters and descend 200 feet.
Reminds me of the "jump jet" I saw at the Willow Grove air show many moons ago. I had no idea that we had such a thing nor that it was there...so when i saw it take off I was, to say the least, amazed. Being a jet it was a fair bit more compelling to watch then I imagine these are...but both seem beyond reality really...but there it is, flying along. Nice!
Given my current location, I've actually seen one of these in the air here. Interesting looking aircraft, indeed...
Grim:
They are rather strange birds, but that's how it is sometimes with innovative concepts.
Barb:
Exactly. As long as it works and is effective, that's what matters.
Hawkeye®:
So far, so good...for the most part. And you're welcome.
BillT:
As I understand it, the "vortex ring state" is only a problem when one V22 is operating in close proximity to another, under certain circumstances that cause a catastrophic loss of lift; now that the pilots are aware of the potential, they can avoid getting into those situations, something which (in other forms) can occur with other types of aircraft as well.
Regarding the slow approach that you witnessed, I don't know why they went about it that way, but can only speculate that they may have been transporting someone in delicate condition.
boberin:
Vertical takeoff/landing capability is something the V22 and Harrier have in common, although the Harrier burns (much!) more fuel doing it.
Bunny:
It is an interesting looking aircraft, which reminds me of a Bill Cosby routine...
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