Bell Textron and Boeing marked a key milestone as the last CV-22 Osprey aircraft nears completion at the Bell Amarillo Assembly Center. On April 18, representatives from both companies held a ceremony to recognize the progress of the CV-22 Program of Record for the U.S. Air Force, marking the transition from full-rate production to long-term support.
The V22 Osprey remains the first military tiltrotor aircraft to enter service, offering unmatched speed, range, and operational flexibility across various terrains. The U.S. Air Force, the first military branch to receive the V22 Osprey with upgraded nacelles, will soon complete its program of record for newly built CV22 aircraft.
According to Eldon Metzger, Bell V22 program director, “Completing the CV-22 production aircraft for the U.S. Air Force is an immense honor and testament to the amazing men and women who have worked to design, engineer, and build these incredible aircraft.” He also said, “As we reach this milestone of CV-22 production we embark on the next chapter of our journey as we transition from full-rate production to fleet wide sustainment.”
Purpose-built for Air Force special operations
The Air Force version of the Osprey was developed for special operations missions that demand speed and long-distance reach beyond the limits of traditional aircraft. Its capabilities have made it a preferred platform for complex and time-sensitive operations.
Notable missions carried out by the CV22 include the longest nighttime hostage rescue of American citizens in the history of the Department of Defense, an emergency evacuation of 194 individuals from the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, and a rescue mission on a moving naval vessel over 250 nautical miles from land during a medical emergency.
These missions have shown the importance of the CV22 in responding to unpredictable and high-stakes situations. The tiltrotor design allows vertical takeoff and landing with the range and speed of a fixed-wing aircraft, which expands operational possibilities.
Next phase focused on support and updates
As production of the final CV22 wraps up, the attention now shifts toward maintaining the fleet. The team behind the V22 Osprey, made up of Bell, Boeing, and other industry partners, is now focused on sustainment and future upgrades for the Air Force’s Osprey variant. The delivery of the last CV22 aircraft is scheduled for the coming months.
Kathleen (KJ) Jolivette, vice president and general manager, Vertical Lift for Boeing Defense, Space & Security, stated, “The CV-22 Osprey represents the dedication and determination of all those who had a hand in creating a unique aircraft and capability for the U.S. Air Force.” She added, “We are proud of all the work that has gone into the program over the years and look forward to maintaining the CV-22 for decades to come in support of its mission critical operations.”
While CV22 production for the Air Force reaches completion, Bell and Boeing continue to manufacture MV22 and CMV22 variants to meet the operational needs of the Marine Corps and the Navy.
The milestone reached at the Amarillo facility signals the end of one chapter and the beginning of long-term support for this platform. Bell and Boeing now shift their efforts to ensuring the CV22 fleet remains capable, reliable, and ready to meet evolving mission demands.
