V-22 Osprey

UV-22 Army Variant

The Army initially planned to buy 231 basic UV-22 models, but this requirement was later eliminated. As initially envisioned, JVX would satisfy the Marine Corps' HXM requirements as well as provide a new special electronic mission aircraft (SEMA) for the Army, a combat search and rescue aircraft (SAR) for the Navy and Air Force, and an Air Force special operations aircraft. Additionally, it was anticipated that JVX would reduce or replace a number of aircraft and helicopters in the DoD inventory, given its multi-mission capability. The Army would replace its SEMA aircraft (OV-I, RU-21, RC-12, EM-I, etc.).

A Service Secretaries Memorandum of Understanding of 4 June 1982 established a funding share for the common development program of: 34 percent Army, 50 percent Navy and 16 percent Air Force. Each service was to fund and support its own unique operational testing as well as the cost of unique configuration packages and mission equipment. The Army's SEMA mission required the JVX to vertically lift a 4,600 pound electronic kit and cruise at 250 knots up to 30,000 feet for four hours. This lift requirement necessitated a larger aircraft (40,000 pound) and more powerful engine than the other services' mission needs.

In the Spring of 1983, the Army reviewed its overall aircraft mission requirements and decided to withdraw from the JVX development program.