If you read Time magazine, then you know that they are less than thrilled that the V-22 Osprey aircraft has deployed to Iraq. The Osprey is a hybrid aircraft that can take of vertically like a helicopter and then rotate it's engines forward to fly like an airplane, theoretically.

In reality it is a very tricky design that has killed thirty people and cost more than five Mechanized Divisions to develop. Instead of being able to carry Marines into a hot LZ while employing it's own gun fire; it is more suited to moving troops from one safe area to another. (Time, September 07)

Without re-stating all of the previously documented shortcomings of the Osprey; I am going to make a prediction. Within thirty days of actual use in combat, the Marines will have suffered at least six or more deaths attributed directly to the V-22's deficiencies. The Marine Generals who wanted the Osprey so badly, and the Congressmen whose Districts the Osprey is being built in should start setting their watches for when the first Congressional hearings are going to start as to what caused the high number of casualties associated with a poor design and planning.

The real irony here is that of all the people who were opposed to the Osprey being built, then Secretary of Defense Dick Cheny led the charge on at least six occasions. Each time he tried to get the project killed he was over turned by Congress or the Marine Corp's allies. (Time, September 07)

Stay tuned, film will be available over the next ninety days.