Bell pushes Osprey to Canada for search and rescue duties. This is exactly where the Osprey’s expensive capabilities make the most sense, getting to those in need fast and getting those in even more need back for complex care as soon as humanly possible. I have often wondered why the USCG has not been more aggressive pursuing the V-22 or the AW609. Its capabilities would be truly life saving compared to the HH-60J/MH-65C fleet that currently serves the force. The HH-60J and possibly some of the CASA HC-144 Ocean Sentry’s missions could be handled by the V-22, while the HH-60′s missions could be handled by the AW609.
Medivac, search and rescue and combat search and rescue are really the main areas where tiltrotor technology really offers an incredible advantage over cheaper, more traditional rotory winged options. You would think that a service such as the USCG that focuses on saving lives, where mission radius and seconds inbound and outbound really count, would make tiltrotor procurement a top priority. Maybe Canada will make the great leap first to show the world what they are missing out on!
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