Out of an abundance of caution, following the AFSOC operational stand down, NAVAIR is instituting a grounding bulletin for all V-22 Osprey variants Dec. 6. This decision comes after the V-22 Osprey mishap on Nov. 29, off the shore of Yakushima, Japan.

Preliminary investigation information indicates a potential materiel failure caused the mishap, but the underlying cause of the failure is unknown at this time. While the mishap remains under investigation, we are implementing additional risk mitigation controls to ensure the safety of our service members. 

Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) recently recognized an administrative employee with the 2023 Supervisor of the Year award for their dedication to improvement, growth and customer service. 

Over 300 supervisors were nominated for this award across Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), with seven of those coming from FRCE. FRCE’s winner, Travel Branch Head Yolanda Wooten, was presented with the award during a NAVAIR award ceremony held Nov. 16.

Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) is ushering in a new era of naval aviation as the Navy continues the gradual retirement of its legacy F/A-18A-D series. The renowned F-16 aircraft is poised to become a major program for the FRCSW Depot team’s operations. The F-16, known as the "Fighting Falcon," has been a mainstay in air forces globally since its inception in the 1970s. Designed as a multi-role fighter, its versatility and state-of-the-art avionics have rendered it indispensable in aerial combat and strategic missions.

On Thursday, Nov. 9, Samuel N. Hotz, principal deputy program manager, AV-8B Program Office (PMA-257) at Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), received the Department of Defense (DoD) Distinguished Civilian Service Award during the 68th ceremony at the pentagon. 

“There are many outstanding and deserving people within the DoD,” Hotz said. “It is a true honor and privilege for me to accept this award and represent the Department of the Navy in this manner.” 

Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) recently wrapped up a successful robotic process automation project that helps enhance the depot’s efficiency in delivering parts, components and aircraft to the warfighter.

An in-house team created bots specifically designed to automate tasks within FRCE’s Comptroller Department. Bots are programmable software robots that automate repetitive tasks in a digital environment.

The Italian Navy AV-8B Program Office and the U.S. Navy’s AV-8B Weapon Systems Program Office (PMA-257) recently recognized Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) for its outstanding support of the Italian AV-8B Harrier fleet.

Commander, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Vice Admiral Carl Chebi and a gathering of distinguished visitors, industry leaders and guests celebrated Sept. 16 the 300th anniversary of the establishment of Mattapany Manor, the residence of Chebi and NAVAIR commanders before him.

 “Thank you again for coming today to visit historic Mattapany-Sewall, a place I’m proud to call home,” Chebi said. “If you can get this as a rental property, I highly recommend it.”

Chebi talked about how the past and present meet at Mattapany and NAVAIR.

Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) has hired its first permanent employees from the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge Program. SkillBridge matches military members with industry partners to gain valuable training and work experience during their last 180 days of active duty service, to ease their transition into the civilian workforce.

At a ribbon-cutting ceremony aboard Naval Air Station Jacksonville on Monday, Oct. 16, Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) opened a new facility expected to usher in next-generation avionics excellence.

Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) inducted its first F135 Power Module (PM) Aug. 24, one of the five major modules that make up the propulsion system on the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. 

After being designated as a Department of Defense second depot source of repair (DSOR) for the F135 engine, FRCSE quickly began planning for the arrival of its first PM and future sustainment as a second DSOR.