Latest Variant Features New Weather Radar, Other Improvements

The U.S. Marine Corps has taken delivery of the first MV-22 Osprey produced with the new Block C suite of design upgrades. The program is a strategic alliance between The Boeing Company and Bell Helicopter.

The V-22 Block C design upgrade includes a new weather radar system that improves navigation in poor weather conditions, and a redesigned Environmental Conditioning System to enhance aircrew and troop comfort. Expanded capacity and effectiveness built into the Electronic Warfare system -- including additional chaff/flare dispensers -- increases the Osprey’s ability to defeat air-to-air and ground-to-air threats. The Block C also provides greater situational awareness with enhanced cockpit and cabin displays.

“We continue to increase the capabilities of this first-of-type tiltrotor, and Block C is the latest, evolutionary step,” said Marine Corps Col. Greg Masiello, Joint V-22 Program Manager, Naval Air Systems Command. “Whether it's the addition of weather radar, upgrades to the environmental control system, or improvements for situational awareness, Block C brings enhanced capability to V-22 pilots, maintainers, and crew members throughout the aircraft’s life cycle."

FMI: www.bellhelicopter.com, www.boeing.com