Marine Corps V-280 Valor Achieves Initial Operational Capability

The Bell V-280 Valor tiltrotor has officially achieved Initial Operational Capability with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 at Marine Corps Air Station New River. The milestone marks a new chapter in Marine Corps aviation assault capabilities.

The V-280 replaces the venerable V-22 Osprey in certain roles, offering improved speed, range, and survivability. The aircraft can cruise at speeds exceeding 280 knots and carry 14 fully equipped Marines plus a four-person crew.

“The Valor represents a generational leap in vertical lift capability,” said Lieutenant General Mark Wise, Deputy Commandant for Aviation. “Our Marines will operate with unprecedented speed and agility across the battlespace.”

The squadron has received six aircraft so far, with deliveries continuing through 2027 to reach full operational strength. Pilots and crew chiefs completed an intensive six-month transition training program that included both simulator and flight training.

The Marine Corps plans to acquire 150 V-280 aircraft over the next decade, replacing older tiltrotor variants and expanding vertical assault capacity.