Japan Bell Boeing V-22 Conducts Flights at Kisarazu Air Field

As the Bell Boeing V-22 garners attention from global military forces for its unparalleled capabilities, operators continue to showcase the tiltrotor’s benefits. Bell Boeing customer Japan Ground Self Defense Force’s (JGSDF) Transportation Aviation Group (TAG) officially began flight operations at Kisarazu Air Field on Nov. 6. Bell Boeing, in conjunction with the U.S. government, delivered the first V-22 aircraft to the defense force over the summer - a major milestone amidst a global pandemic.

"The JGSDF [Japan Ground Self Defense Force] is taking a big step toward integrating the V-22’s unique capabilities into its mission,” said Col. Matthew Kelly, program manager for the V-22 Joint Program Office (PMA-275). “Beginning with Japan’s selection of the V-22 in 2015, it has been an honor working with our international ally and partner to make this program a reality.”

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The quality and safety built into the V-22 has been battle-tested with global operators completing more than a half-million fleet flight hours of extensive operational and humanitarian efforts throughout the world. The V-22 offers a dynamic vertical takeoff and landing ability that allows it to access critical environments and navigate marine environments. It continues to perform missions day in and day out, transporting marines, airmen, sailors and soldiers to and from the fight over longer ranges and at higher speeds than conventional rotorcraft. This incredible platform enables the completion of tasks that were not previously possible before and saves lives, making it an exceptional asset in the military aircraft market.

About Bell

Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 85 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us.

We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were a part of NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of advanced air mobility.

Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours.

Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.

About Textron

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, and Textron Systems. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.

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