The highly versatile V-22 is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft and can perform both Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) and Short Take Off and Landing (STOL.)

The Osprey is capable of vertical take-off, lifting up-to 14000 pounds of fuel and cargo. The V-22 is capable of transitioning from a stationary hover to flying like a conventional fixed-wing aircraft in less than one minute, and can attain speeds of more than 300 mph.Unique to the Osprey, the V-22 is capable of flight in a configuration between that of a conventional helicopter (VTOL) and a fixed-wing aircraft as well.

To train for the rigors of flying the V-22, pilots must be proficient in both fixed wing multi-engine aircraft and in helicopters.

The Osprey on exhibit is from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163 (VMM-163) known as “Evil Eyes”, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, CA