Tiltrotor Revolution: New Osprey Takes Flight with East Coast Navy

The first CMV-22B Osprey assigned to the US Navy’s East Coast arrived at Naval Station Norfolk on April 5th, 2024, marking a turning point for carrier logistics in the Atlantic Fleet.

This deployment comes alongside the official stand-up of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 40, also known as the “Mighty Bison,” tasked with operating the tiltrotor aircraft.

From Greyhound to Osprey: Enhanced Carrier Logistics

The CMV-22B Osprey is a variant of the well-known V-22 Osprey, known for its unique tiltrotor technology that allows for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) like a helicopter and faster, long-range turboprop flight like a fixed-wing aircraft.

This capability offers a significant advantage over the previously used C-2A Greyhound in the Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) role.

The CMV-22B boasts an extended range, allowing it to deliver critical supplies and personnel directly to aircraft carriers at sea, enhancing the Navy’s logistical reach and responsiveness.

The Rise of the “Mighty Bison”: VRM-40 Takes Charge

VRM-40, established in March 2022 alongside sister squadrons on the West Coast, has officially transitioned its personnel to Norfolk as of February 1st, 2024.

The remaining CMV-22Bs for the squadron are expected to arrive throughout the summer, completing the unit’s operational readiness.

“We are proud to join the Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic team and eager to lean forward into our next phase of stand-up,” said Cmdr. Matthew Boyce, Commanding Officer of VRM-40.

The squadron’s Executive Officer, Cmdr. Mason Fox echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the CMV-22B for future naval operations:

“We’re excited to be in our permanent home at Naval Station Norfolk and focused on continuing to build the squadron to execute our mission—delivering high-priority people and parts to carrier strike groups at sea. The Osprey is an extremely capable aircraft and will be critically important to the way the Navy fights for many years to come.”

A Platform of Promise, Mired in Recent Concerns

This news arrives amidst recent safety concerns surrounding the Osprey platform, which led to a grounding order in December 2023.

While the Navy’s commitment to deploying the CMV-22B suggests confidence in the platform’s capabilities after addressing those safety issues, only time will tell how effectively the Osprey integrates into the Atlantic Fleet’s operations.

The arrival of the CMV-22B on the East Coast signifies a new chapter in carrier logistics for the Atlantic Fleet. VRM-40, the “Mighty Bison,” stands poised to leverage the Osprey’s unique capabilities, enhancing the Navy’s ability to deliver critical supplies and personnel to carrier strike groups at sea.

However, the recent grounding order serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety as the Navy integrates this innovative platform into its operations.