HeliNinja Posted August 13, 2011 Posted August 13, 2011 Osprey Very interesting read. I wonder though about whether the military would transition to an Osprey for troop transport based on cost alone. My first thought was 16 UH60's vs. One V-22 for transporting a full company is impressive but what about when something catastrophic happens? Will you accept the possibility of losing an entire company? I think the prototype helicopters that go 230+ knots have more promise. Just my two cents. Quote
RagMan Posted August 15, 2011 Posted August 15, 2011 A V22 can not carry an entire company; A couple squads at best, but not an entire company. You think that by looking at the outside of them they would be able to carry a whole heap load of soldiers, but they just can't. Those things have about half the troop carrying capacity of a Ch-47 (so we're talking around 20 equipped soldiers inside a V22, if that). About all they are good for is getting guys to and from the field over long distances, that's it. Quote
HoverMatt Posted August 15, 2011 Posted August 15, 2011 The article said 4 V-22's could carry a company, vs 16 UH-60's. Quote
edspilot Posted August 15, 2011 Posted August 15, 2011 A flight of 3 Osprey(s) have been doing some training at my airport this past weekend. Let me tell you they DO leave a "footprint" from the landing. We now have 2 burn circles on the grass for each landing. The circles are about 12-15 feet in diameter. I'll take a few pictures as soon as the weather clears so you can see. I can see a real problem if they land in a field with tall grass and start a fire. Could be a problem when loading and unloading troops. Just an observation. edspilot Quote
Wally Posted August 15, 2011 Posted August 15, 2011 I have to admit that the V22 is apparently doing a better job than I thought it would, lots of satisfied users... Don't go all McNamara on this- The Osprey isn't a drop-in replacement for all military helicopters, especially the Blackhawk. The disadvantage of trying to replace a lot of smaller assets with fewer, more expensive ones, even if they do as much? One big one drawback comes to mind: a single "golden BB-type" RPG shot can knock a Blackhawk down, or a Chinook, or an Osprey... They all have their places. Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.