Marines also fly the MV-22 differently than the Air Force flies its CV-22s, which contributed to its decision to continue flying the Osprey, the Corps said in a document distributed Thursday. That includes the fact that Marines typically fly MV-22s over water after launching from amphibious ships.
For example, a Marine official said in the briefing call, the Marines will instruct Osprey pilots who take off over water to hover while checking instruments and making sure the clutch isn’t slipping. After conducting those checks, the Osprey will then move on to conduct maneuvers.
Because Marine MV-22s are usually launched from amphibious platforms over water, the Marine official said, they are better able to hover for a period without encountering dust storms or enemy threats, which Air Force Ospreys might encounter over land. Air Force Ospreys might need to more quickly leave the takeoff area for tactical reasons, he added.