Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions

Floor Speech

STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS -- (Senate - December 19, 2007)

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Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, today I am introducing legislation to rescind funds appropriated for the procurement of the V-22 and CV-22 Osprey. This aircraft has been the subject of significant controversy because of safety, technical, and cost problems. In 1991, then-Secretary DICK CHENEY tried to cancel the program altogether. I have long advocated for more extensive testing of the aircraft to evaluate design defects that render the Osprey unstable and technical problems that have already cost the lives of 30 servicemembers. New problems were discovered as recently as June 2007.

I appreciate that the military is in need of additional helicopters, particularly as a result of the high operational tempo in Iraq and Afghanistan. Given the fact that the Osprey costs significantly more than other aircraft that can meet the same need, I believe we should shift to a safer, more economic program.

This bill would rescind funds appropriated for the program through 2008. That includes $2.8 billion in previously appropriated but unobligated funds and $2.9 billion in funds appropriated for fiscal year 08. The Defense Department estimates it will spend an additional $28.6 billion to purchase a total of 458 Osprey through 2018. Ending this troubled program could produce savings of over $34.3 billion.

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