Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30 delivered an F-35C engine aboard USS Carl Vinson in the U. S. Navy’s first, at-sea replenishment for this component.
The U.S. Navy say that this success follows a November 2020 milestone, during which VRM-30, CVW-2 and USS Carl Vinson conducted the U.S. Navy’s first landings, take-offs, and refueling of a Navy CMV-22B Osprey from an aircraft carrier.
“The at-sea power module replenishment evolution consisted of loading, transporting and unloading the F135 power module from a shore-based location to the carrier by way of a CMV-22B. The power module is an engine component used by all three F-35 Lightning II variants.”
Describing the CMV-22B, the U.S. Navy website says:
“The CMV-22B is the U.S. Navy version of the V-22 Osprey, a multi-engine, dual-piloted, self-deployable, medium lift, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) tilt-rotor aircraft. The CMV-22B can transport cargo and passengers as far as 1,150 nautical miles; provides enhanced survivability and beyond-line-of-sight communications; and has the required cargo capacity and fast cargo loading/unloading.Â
Coupled with its ability to transport the F-35 power module inside its cargo bay, CMV-22B is the ideal choice to provide required carrier on-board delivery capabilities for F-35C operations at sea.”
The U.S Navy also add that this delivery marks a milestone in the integration of CMV-22B to the Carrier Air Wing, validates the F135 modular maintenance concept at sea, and most importantly supports future carrier air wing deployments with next-generation platforms.
Hi guys, my first post… Do we have the capabilities to change an F35b engine on the QE carriers. Will we get any Ospreys?
A little surprised to see that the engine module isn’t in a protective wrap – don’t imagine saltwater is too kind to expensive equipment like this
Any clues how we do this on QEC other than Chinook?
The proposed drone won’t be able to lift something this heavy: surely?
I mean QEC is big but there is a limit to how much stuff you stash on board on a ‘just in case’ basis……
You would have to imagine that they will need tontake 1 or2 with them, or indeed have them on the supporting RFA,! Not sure that would work if the Merlin can’t lift it!!!
Drones can’t do it at the moment but what this space …..
Drop by parachute from a C-130 or C-17? lol
QE Class has storage space set aside for spare engines when she sails. you can get a F35b engine in a chinook. or ask the USMC to ship you one FED EX LOL
By all accounts We will not have to bother……. we’ll just retire any that might need a new engine. ( Sarcastic Face )
Very disappointed to see the engine not fitted with an environmental cover (bag).
Perhaps they couldn’t decide on an Orvis or a Barbour bag?
Ha
No room ?
Wouldn’t you just keep a few onboard?
Not sure how beneficial this exercise if to be honest – how often would we be expected to lose and engine in an otherwise servicable airframe?
It’s fairly common to have to remove an engine to repair it. It apparently takes 72 man hours to remove and replace. The engine manufacturer sets out the procedures in immense detail. If you have a turbine blade problem, this can’t be fixed in situ.
It is a great shame that the UK Gov will not buy a small number (5?) CMV-22 for the RN. Why spend billions on 2 70k carriers & not equip them properly? CMV-22 cost $105 m each including initial spares package.