Japan Clears the V-22 Osprey for Flight

The Japanese Ministry of Defence has given a green light to allow the US Marines Corps to begin V-22 Osprey flight operations from October, it has emerged.

A report from the Japanese MoD on 19 September says 'there is no particular problem in the safety of the aircraft', but also said that the MoD has put measures in place to try and mitigate any possible safety issues. These include low-level flight training to take place above a minimum safe altitude of 500 feet avoiding nuclear power plants and densely populated areas.

'We have confirmed the safety for the Osprey to operate, and on the premise that there will be maximum consideration provided for the public, we have decided to allow the United States to start operating the Osprey,' said Japanese defence minister Satoshi Morimoto.

In a statement, Acting US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs George Little said: 'Secretary Panetta is pleased that we have been able to reach agreement with the Government of Japan that permits the Osprey to commence flight operations in Japan.

'This agreement was the result of a deep partnership and thorough process that allowed both sides to reconfirm the safety of the aircraft. It is a testament to the strength and maturity of our Alliance, which remains the cornerstone for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.'

The basing of the Osprey in Japan has been a highly controversial subject and the recent arrival of the aircraft in country was met by protests from people concerned by the aircraft's safety record following crashes of the type in the US and in Morocco.

The US Marine Corps want the Ospreys in Japan as part of the ongoing modernisation of its rotary-wing fleet, the aircraft are replacing increasingly elderly CH-46 Sea Knights. A second squadron of 12 aircraft is scheduled to arrive at MCAS Futenma during the summer of 2013.