Japan's V-22 Osprey Fleet Resumes Operations After Crash

An investigation by Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) has determined that human error was the cause of an accident involving a V-22 Osprey aircraft during a takeoff attempt on October 27 at Camp Yonaguni. The pilot neglected to activate a critical 'interim power switch' necessary for safe takeoff, leading to the aircraft's left wing striking the ground; fortunately, all 16 personnel aboard, including three U.S. Marines, were unharmed. Following the incident, the GSDF grounded its fleet of 17 Ospreys but has since cleared them to resume operations after implementing enhanced safety and training measures. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed the operation's resumption, emphasizing that the incident stemmed solely from pilot error, not external factors. The GSDF plans to improve pilot training and clearly mark safety switches to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The fleet's return to the skies comes amidst ongoing concerns regarding the safety record of Ospreys in Okinawa, an area that hosts a significant U.S. military presence.