Video: First CMV-22B aircraft for fleet operations arrives at Naval Air Station North Island

Bell Textron Inc. and Boeing delivered the first CMV-22B for fleet operations to the U.S. Navy on Monday. The V-22 is based at Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron 30 at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, Calif.

This aircraft is the third overall delivery to the U.S. Navy. Bell Boeing delivered the first CMV-22B at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in February for developmental testing, followed by a second in May. The Navy variant V-22 will take over the Carrier Onboard Delivery Mission, replacing the C-2A Greyhound.

The CMV-22B and C-2A greyhound conducted a symbolic passing of the torch flight in April.

The CMV-22B carries up to 6,000 pounds of cargo and combines the vertical takeoff, hover and landing qualities of a helicopter with the long-range, fuel efficiency and speed characteristics of a turboprop aircraft.

Bell Boeing designed the Navy variant to have the expanded range needed for fleet operations. Two additional 60-gallon tanks and redesigned forward sponson tanks can cover more than 1,150 nautical miles.