I assume this is the right place to post this topic, although it's a matter of opinion what the Osprey actually is. Is it a helicopter or is it an aircraft...
Anyway, I just received the book "Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey" by Bill Norton from AeroFax. I haven't read it completely of course, but paging through this book I already got some great ideas.
Did you know that one of the very early mission profiles for the V-22 was VIP transport? At one point it was destined to replace/augment VH-3's and VH-60's for VMX. Unfortunately this was cancelled because of problems and delays in production. At this time the most likely winner for the new VIP aircraft would be the EH-101.
But there's a very nice image of a "VV-22 Osprey" printed in this book. As well as a Medivac variant, the (also cancelled, although still very interesting) "SV-22" subhunter and "KV-22" tanker. I wish I had the time and space, but if I could I would get about 5 or six V-22 Ospreys in 1/72nd and paint and modify one of those in each of these varieties!! Still, I think I'll be getting the Italeri V-22 kit though.
I would also like to know what you think of this. Should it be cancelled? I think not, it's a too interesting design and it has great promises for the future.
Of course, there have been already too many casualties, and it is true that testing this aircraft is a dangerous job. But what did they expect, it's a totally new kind of machine, something unlike anything before. And when the first helicopters were built, they also contributed too many deaths in testing these new vehicles. Same goes for the aircraft. The idea has merit, and if it really comes into production/service, it will greatly enhance Marine, Airforce, Army and Naval operations. The biggest problem with the Osprey is it's price. It's costs are escalating rapidly. But this also is a result of poor politics and managing. The US Government should do it different. They agree on a price for the Osprey with the manufacturers, and that's what they will pay for it. If the manufacturer can make it cheaper (although still keep it's capabilities) than the rest is profit. If costs go up, well tough luck. Not our problem. The Dutch government did the very same with the new "De Zeven Provincien class" air defence frigate. A price was set, and that was final. Below this price would be profit, above it would be carried by the shipyard.
Any thoughts on this?
I'd also like to know what you think of the Italeri kit, and if there's anything better available.
Thanks!!
Remko