Simplified, Streamlined Nacelle Changes Speed Maintenance Process, Reduce Costs

The V-22 Osprey has seen the first of the fleet's upcoming enhancements under the Nacelle Improvements Modification program.

Bell and Boeing have sought to reduce costs and maintenance time by refining wiring and access components within the engine nacelle. The fix has intruiged other domestic operators of the aircraft type, with the Marine Corps and Navy citing interest in acquiring the same nacelle improvements for their MV-22 and CMV-22B variants. 

The housings contain the Osprey's most critical power components, requiring constant attention and inspection to the derision of technicians on base. The program will ultimately save time and cost while boosting mission readiness rates. Bell completed the first modification on an Air Force CV-22 Osprey taken from the 20th Special Operations Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base at their Amarillo, Texas Assembly Center. The facility employs more than 500 to offer simultaneous production of new Ospreys as well as overhauls to existing aircraft.

The experienced "Bell artisans" are said to make short work of the nacelle removal and replacement process, further saving time for aircraft needed back in service as quickly as possible. The first completed Osprey was returned to service soon after, with the second to be completed currently underway. 

“Speed, range, and versatility have always been fundamental to the Osprey, and that includes speed of maintenance,” said Kurt Fuller, V-22 program director and Bell vice president. "The incorporated nacelle improvements help ensure the Osprey continues to outpace adversaries both operationally and sustainably.”

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