Test and Evaluation of the V-22 Osprey at NAWC AD Patuxent River, Maryland

摘要

The proposed action is to test and evaluate several initial productionVertical/Short Takeoff and tanding (Tilt Rotor) aircraft, the V-22 Osprey, during the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) and Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) phases. The current EA addresses potential environmental impacts associated with site-specific impacts at NAWC AD Patuxent River during EMD and LRIP phases of the V-22 program. Three versions of the V-22 Osprey aircraft are proposed to be tested at NAWC AD Patuxent River: four MV-22 (Marine Corps version); one CV-22 (Special Operations Command version); and two HV-22 (Navy version). Flight tests are proposed to occur within restricted flight areas controlled by NAWC AD Patuxent River. The test program has a goal of 20 flight hours per month with an average 1.5 hours per flight. Ground testing will occur close to existing aircraft hangers and near an abandoned taxiway. The purpose for the tests is to evaluate and ensure that V-22 aircraft can meet the specified mission requirements. The development and production of the V-22 is needed to meet the current shortfall in the medium lift force and correct inadequacies in quality/capability of the existing medium lift force within the Services.