Business case analysis of the Special Operations Air Mobility Vehicle

Abstract

Special Operations Air Mobility Vehicle (SOAMV) is the military term used to describe the Weight Shift Control (WSC) aircraft. The WSC aircraft is a type of Light-Sport aircraft that has certain characteristics that distinguish it from the more vague aircraft industry segment of Light-Sport aircraft. The WSC aircraft consists of three major, but simple parts: the wing, the carriage, and the pilot. Everything about this aircraft is based on simple, portable, and inexpensive concepts with very little use of modern technology. This keeps the costs down and maximizes the basics of aviation, to include calling on the skills and training of the pilot. Several manufacturers produce this commercial aircraft. They are Air Creation USA, Airborne, Evolution, Concept Aviation, Manta Aircraft S.A., and Northwing Design. This project has three objectives: (1) describe the WSC aircraft and its capabilities. Assess its benefits and costs relative to the V-22 Osprey, the newest troop transport helicopter, and the US Air Force (USAF) Predator, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Drone; (2) perform an industry analysis of the WSC training and aircraft sales industry; and (3) determine the expected government training capabilities and costs.