Amarillo, Texas, 20 April 2026 – Bell Textron Inc. has reported significant operational improvements following the implementation of its Nacelle Improvement (NI) Programme on the V-22 Osprey fleet.

Based on more than 10,000 flight hours of Air Force Special Operations Command CV-22 operations, the upgrade has resulted in a 75% reduction in maintenance hours, contributing to improved aircraft readiness.

TARGETED UPGRADE TO CRITICAL SYSTEMS

The nacelle, which houses key power components enabling vertical take-off and transition to forward flight, has been the focus of a targeted modernisation effort. The NI programme includes simplified wiring, structural enhancements, and design improvements informed by operational maintenance feedback.

The upgrade was first introduced in 2021, with initial modifications applied to aircraft operated by the 20th Special Operations Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base.

MEASURABLE OPERATIONAL GAINS

According to programme data, the improvements have delivered substantial efficiency gains. Maintenance time savings exceed 24,000 hours, equivalent to more than 1,000 days of maintainer availability redirected to other operational priorities.

 Aircraft readiness has increased by more than 10%, resulting in a higher number of mission-capable platforms available for deployment and training.

ONGOING FLEET SUPPORT AND PRODUCTION

Bell continues to carry out the NI modifications at its Amarillo Assembly Center, which supports the production and sustainment of all V-22 variants, including MV-22, CMV-22, and CV-22 aircraft.

The company stated that the programme enhances long-term reliability, maintainability, and sustainability of the fleet, supporting both combat and humanitarian mission requirements.