Sponsors (2)
Last progress June 11, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on June 11, 2025 by Rafael Edward Cruz
Gives the Secretary of the Navy authority to add nacelle improvement modifications to the CMV–22 aircraft fleet to boost readiness, reduce maintenance needs, and support contested logistics operations. The measure requires prioritizing aircraft produced or maintained in fiscal years 2025 and 2026, coordinating with the defense industrial base, and using funds and authorities already available to the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to deliver a report to the congressional defense committees within 180 days describing the scope and status of nacelle work, changes in readiness and performance, impacts on industry and workforce, and recommendations on sustainment, procurement, or any legislative needs.
Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to integrate nacelle improvement modifications into the CMV–22 aircraft fleet to enhance operational readiness, reduce maintenance burdens, and support contested logistics operations.
Require the Secretary of the Navy to seek to reduce aircraft downtime and increase reliability through structural, wiring, and systems improvements when carrying out the integration of nacelle improvements.
Require the Secretary of the Navy to seek to incorporate lessons learned and performance data from the Air Force’s nacelle improvement modernization effort for CV–22 aircraft.
Require the Secretary of the Navy to seek to ensure operational availability of CMV–22 aircraft platforms in support of distributed maritime operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
Require the Secretary of the Navy to seek to sustain the specialized tiltrotor industrial workforce and supplier base during the transition from V–22 aircraft to future long range assault aircraft production.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.
Who is most directly affected:
Department of the Navy and other Defense components: The Navy gains explicit authority to add nacelle improvements and must manage prioritization, contracting, and technical oversight. Operational commanders may see improved aircraft readiness and lower maintenance demand if modifications succeed.
CMV–22 operators and aircrews: Potential for better availability, reduced maintenance-related downtime, and possibly improved operational capabilities in contested environments.
Maintenance and sustainment workforce: Modifications could change maintenance procedures, require new training, and shift workload between depot and field maintenance. Prioritization of FY2025–2026 aircraft may concentrate near-term work on specific airframes.
Defense industrial base and contractors: Suppliers and aircraft maintenance contractors are expected to be engaged through coordination requirements; some firms may see increased near-term workload or need to expand capacity/skills.
Congress (defense committees): Will receive detailed reporting to evaluate readiness impacts and to consider any follow-on funding or legislative authorities.
Fiscal and programmatic impacts:
Overall effect: