Rep. James Comer Probes Osprey Safety Following Fatal Crash
Pentagon Grounds Entire V-22 Osprey Fleet as Investigation into Recent Crash Continues
- Rep. James Comer has requested documents from the Pentagon regarding the safety and performance of the Osprey aircraft, following a fatal crash near Japan that killed eight crew members.
- More than 50 U.S. troops have died in Osprey crashes since 1992, caused by reduced visibility, faulty gearboxes, and engine failures.
- The Osprey, which can take off and land like a helicopter but fly like a fixed-wing airplane, can transport up to 24 special forces members faster and farther than any conventional helicopter, but it is riddled with safety concerns.
- Following the Nov. 29 crash, the Pentagon grounded its entire fleet of V-22 Osprey aircraft.
- The Department of Defense has purchased more than 450 Ospreys, each unit costing around $120 million.