Aircraft
Osprey to Begin Refueling Tests Next Year
Marine Corps Ospreys are scheduled to gain an inflight refueling capability by the end of 2019, increasing their ability to support F-35 ops.
A Hornet flies close behind a Bell Boeing MV-22B Osprey during initial tanker compatibility trials.
A Hornet flies close behind a Bell Boeing MV-22B Osprey during initial tanker compatibility trials.

Having earlier conducted concept validation flights, the Bell Boeing MV-22B Osprey is set to begin midair refueling trials early next year, with an aim of clearing the capability for service by 2020. Adding the ability to refuel other aircraft from the MV-22B will provide the Air Combat Element (ACE) of deployed Marine Expeditionary Units with an organic refueling capability to free the ACE from reliance on shore-based tankers or carrier-based Navy refuelers.


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