Take a Ride on the Osprey (Updated)

Do phrases like vortex ring state send shivers down your spine? Then this trip might not be for you, but for all the other media folks out there, here’s the news: the Pentagon is offering a ride to reporters on its V-22 Osprey, the aircraft that’s killed 30 people (so far). The Pentagon’s planning a […]

Do phrases like vortex ring state send shivers down your spine? Then this trip might not be for you, but for all the other media folks out there, here's the news: the Pentagon is offering a ride to reporters on its V-22 Osprey, the aircraft that's killed 30 people (so far).

V22osprey01The Pentagon's planning a briefing this Friday to announce the Osprey's deployment, says a Pentagon press release. "Immediately following the briefing there will be an orientation flight in an MV-22 Osprey for a limited number (20) of media representatives. Seats will be provided on a first come, first served basis, one per media organization."

Yes, yes, the V-22 had made some good steps toward recovery. Who cares. The testing program's continuing mishaps -- big and small -- are enough to scare me.

As the resident coward of DANGER ROOM, I was relieved to learn that the V-22 ride is scheduled after my departure for a quick trip to New Mexico.

Other takers should contact the Pentagon.

Update: A reader alerted me to this fascinating forum on the V-22. Worth a look.