Farnborough, UK Boeing officials said they are talking with European partners about a group-bought/group-shared fleet of V-22 tiltrotors. The idea would follow the lines of the C-17 Heavy Airlift Wing, based at Papa AB, Hungary, where 12 nations share three C-17 transports proportionately to their financial contribution to purchase and maintenance of the aircraft. Boeing officials said Germany might be the “anchor” purchaser, now looking at several heavy-lift helo options, including the CH-53K, but countries with less cash might throw in with Germany to have access to the aircraft.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
