About 200 visitors had the opportunity to board a V-22 Osprey tiltrotor transport aircraft during a Ground Self-Defense Force event at its camp in Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture. The event was open to the public on Saturday. Those who had made reservations in advance were able to experience riding in the Osprey aircraft, which is currently stationed at the camp. Unfortunately, due to rainy weather, the Osprey was only able to move on land and hover instead of flying along its training route around the camp.
During the event, the 1st Helicopter Brigade conducted various training exercises. This included personnel descending from different aircraft as well as drills involving transportation of their motor bike unit. Aviation enthusiasts and families attending the event were also treated to displays of other SDF aircraft at the venue. They watched these training activities with great interest.
The V-22 Osprey is a unique tiltrotor transport aircraft that combines features of both helicopters and fixed-wing airplanes. It has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities like a helicopter but can also fly like an airplane by tilting its rotors forward for horizontal flight.
The Ground Self-Defense Force regularly holds events like this one to showcase their capabilities and engage with members of the public who are interested in military aviation. These events provide an opportunity for people to get up close with these impressive machines and learn more about their operations.
Despite not being able to fly due to inclement weather, visitors still had a valuable experience getting inside an actual Osprey aircraft during this event. It allowed them a glimpse into what it’s like for military personnel who rely on these versatile machines for various missions and operations.