EFFECTIVENESS OF V-22 TILTROTORS IN SUPPORT OF LAND COMBAT OPERATIONS

The Janus combat simulation was used to compare the relative effectiveness of three aircraft fleets to reinforce a ground combat operation. The simulation permitted assessing the relative capabilities of these fleets in terms of the outcome of the reinforced combat operation instead of simply tabulating the tonnage delivered. The tactical scenario was selected to stress time-sensitive mobility requirements and to require the aircraft to negotiate a low- to mid-intensity air defense threat. It concludes that, for the scenario examined, a fleet composed of V-22 tiltrotors and CH-53E helicopters is more effective than an alternative fleet composed of CH-60(S) and CH-53E helicopters.