Sonobuoy Test Opens Path To Anti-Sub Role For Ospreys

A successful sonobuoy launch and acoustic data processing test conducted from an MV-22B Osprey has opened a potential new anti-submarine warfare role for the tiltrotor platform, according to Aviation Week. The trial demonstrated the Osprey's ability to deploy sonobuoys and process the resulting underwater acoustic data in real time, a capability previously associated with dedicated maritime patrol aircraft. If developed further, the ASW-configured Osprey could provide US Navy carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups with an organic submarine-detection capability that does not require a fixed-wing or dedicated rotary-wing ASW platform.