CMV-22B completes first flight

The Bell CMV-22B has completed its first flight in Amarillo, at the Bell factory. The CMV-22 is based on the V-22 Osprey, and will replace the C-2A Greyhound in the Carrier Onboard Delivery role. Structurally it's an Osprey, but it adds fuel tanks to the landing gear wells, to increase the range from 860 nautical miles to 1165 nautical miles.

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Did they beef up the cargo floor at all? I honestly haven't followed it. I think it's an interesting idea, but a mistake. We'll see how it goes.

a reply to: RadioRobert

They're not saying a lot about all the changes, but all they've mentioned for the cargo area is improved lighting, and a PA system for the passengers.

What's the fuel efficiency per pound of cargo for the CMV-22B versus the C-2A?

a reply to: Flyingclaydisk

No idea yet. They demonstrated an MV-22, but not much is known about the CMV yet.

The first aircraft arrived at Pax River, and HX-21 took delivery for testing.

I think its a mistake and more kowtowing to keep the 22 viable for the USMC. The revised C-2 would have way more range than this flying death trap that the USMC insisted was necessary for their obsolete mission but I digress

Found on SPF, some nifty photos of the CMV-22 with the last C-2A test aircraft.