About this Unit
Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron 22 (VMX-22) was established in August 2003 as the first operational test squadron for the revolutionary MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. Based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, VMX-22 played a critical role in evaluating and validating the Osprey’s capabilities, tactics, and integration into Marine Corps aviation. The squadron conducted extensive operational testing, including shipboard operations, aerial refueling, and assault support missions, directly contributing to the Osprey's eventual fleet-wide deployment. In June 2016, VMX-22 was redesignated as VMX-1, consolidating its mission with other Marine aviation test elements to further advance operational testing across multiple platforms.
Historical Facts
•
Origins and Activation: Marine Operational and Evaluation Squadron 22 (VMX-22) was originally activated as VMX-22 on August 13, 2003 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, as the first squadron dedicated to testing and evaluating the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
•
Test and Evaluation Role: VMX-22’s primary mission is to conduct operational test and evaluation of the MV-22 Osprey, ensuring the aircraft’s suitability, effectiveness, and survivability for Marine Corps operations.
•
Transition and Redesignation: In 2016, VMX-22 was redesignated as Marine Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron One (VMX-1), broadening its mission to include multiple aviation platforms beyond the Osprey.
•
MV-22 Osprey Debut: VMX-22 played a crucial role in the introduction of the MV-22 Osprey, the world’s first production tiltrotor aircraft, into Marine Corps service, bridging the gap between helicopter and fixed-wing performance.
•
High-Profile Demonstrations: The squadron conducted several high-profile demonstrations, including shipboard operations and long-range flights, to showcase the MV-22’s unique capabilities to defense leaders and international delegations.
•
Notable Deployments: VMX-22 was involved in the first operational deployment of the MV-22 aboard the USS Bataan in 2006, demonstrating its viability for maritime expeditionary operations.
•
Operational Lessons Learned: The unit identified and addressed early technical challenges and safety concerns with the Osprey, directly contributing to improvements in the aircraft’s design and operational procedures.
•
Multi-Service Collaboration: VMX-22 worked closely with the U.S. Air Force’s 71st Special Operations Squadron and other service branches during joint testing, emphasizing the Osprey’s joint-service utility.
•
Training Innovations: The squadron developed new training curricula and tactics for tiltrotor operations, which were adopted across the Marine Corps and influenced global tiltrotor doctrine.
•
Legacy and Impact: VMX-22’s pioneering work ensured the MV-22’s successful integration into Marine Corps aviation, directly influencing its widespread adoption and the evolution of Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) operations.
