Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara has confirmed that both Japanese and American V-22 Ospreys are being safely operated in Japan, with ongoing communication and collaboration with U.S. military officials regarding technical issues and safety assessments. Despite restrictions on Osprey operations in the U.S. until next year, Kihara has stated that there are no plans to request a flight suspension in Japan. Following a fatal crash off Japan’s southern coast in November, precautions have been taken to ensure the safe operation of the Ospreys in the country.
After necessary maintenance and pilot training, the Ospreys that had been grounded following the November crash have returned to flight service in Japan. The aircraft are operated with upgraded safety checks, maintenance, flight plans, emergency measures, and other precautions to prevent future accidents. The restrictions on Osprey operations in Japan following the crash have been lifted, with both Japanese military bases and the Ground Self Defense Force resuming flights in mid-March.
Despite Vice Adm. Carl Chebi’s statement that U.S. military Ospreys won’t be allowed to fly their full range of missions until at least 2025, Japan has allowed the Ospreys to resume flight operations. The Osprey, which can fly like an airplane and land like a helicopter, has faced criticism over its innovative design and alleged systematic flaws that have led to unexpected failures. National security reasons prevent Kihara from commenting on any restrictions attached to the Osprey operations in Japan, but he has requested Washington to explain the details of Chebi’s remarks to the U.S. Congress.
The Osprey program, which has been in use since 2007, has faced several challenges and accidents, with a total of 64 service members killed and 93 others injured in air and ground crashes over the lifespan of the program. Despite these challenges, Japanese and American military officials continue to work together to address technical issues and safety concerns related to the Ospreys. Kihara’s affirmation of the safe operation of Ospreys in Japan and the measures taken to prevent future accidents demonstrate the commitment of both countries to ensuring the safety of their military personnel and operations.
Overall, the return of the Ospreys to flight service in Japan following the fatal crash in November highlights the continued collaboration between Japanese and American military officials to address technical issues and safety concerns. The enhanced safety measures, upgraded maintenance procedures, and ongoing communication between the two countries demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safe operation of Ospreys in Japan. While challenges remain, including restrictions on Osprey operations in the U.S. until 2025, both countries are working to address these issues and prevent future accidents involving the aircraft.
