AH-1Z, UH-1Y, MV-22, CH-53 (soon to upgrade to the K model) and soon the F-35B.
Guess what boys and girls? We have a speed problem. I didn't even include the CH-46 because its headed out to pasture as we speak but the problem lies mainly with the AH-1Z, UH-1Y and their relation to the MV-22. Theoretically both those helicopters can be used as escorts for the MV-22 but realistically its a dead issue. The MV-22 flies too fast and far for the AH-1Z to be of much use...much less the UH-1Y.
The answer is probably a drastic re-working of the MEU's airwing. If the future holds raids from the sea as one of the primary combat missions then we'll need more F-35's on deck....almost no AH-1Z's....only a few (as in one or two--and that's assuming that the Navy doesn't have an H-60 around) UH-1Y's...and the remainder of the airwing being composed of only MV-22's and CH-53K's for lift.
All escort, ground support etc will have to fall on a drastically increased fixed wing component. I remember reading in the Gazette about how stoked AH-1Z pilots were because they wouldn't have to tell CH-53 pilots to slow down while on escort missions. With MV-22's coming online and CH-53K's soon after, AH-1Z pilots won't have to ask them slow down, they'll have to ask them where they are cause they'll be so far behind.
Which brings me to an uncomfortable thought for Marine leadership. In order to get those needed F-35B's might it be time to consider cutting the F-35C purchase and buying F/A-18E/F's to fulfill the carrier air wing requirement? It would free up money to help preserve the MEU's air wing and get more F-35B's on our amphibs.
