The V-22 Osprey Avionics Software Architecture: Preparing for Multi-mission Software

With the new millenium almost upon us, the aviation industry is on the verge of fielding a new type of aircraft. The delivery of the first production tilt-rotor aircraft to the United States Marine Corps is scheduled for later this year. Though this multi-mission aircraft contains many integrated features that will allow the Marine Corps to use this aircraft for many years, the full potential of the V-22 aircraft will not be realized until other branches of the service begin procuring this aircraft for their own mission needs. An avionics system for the V-22 Tilt-rotor has been developed to support the mission needs for the MV-22 configuration, however, alterations in the avionics configuration are planned to satisfy the requirements of the expanded mission needs. The core elements of this avionics system will allow for the necessary modification and reduce the risks associated with modifications on the avionics system.