An MV-22B Osprey belonging to the United States Marine Corps crashed while on a training mission in Norway in the late afternoon of March 18, 2022.
The Osprey was taking part in Exercise Cold Response, which brings together more than 35,000 soldiers from NATO countries and partners. The tiltrotor aircraft was on it way to Bodø Air Base when it disappeared from radar.
A search and rescue mission was launched immediately despite the degraded weather conditions. A Norwegian Air Force helicopter and P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft were dispatched from Bodø to locate the crash site.
“The police in Nordland County confirmed Saturday morning that the crew of four have died,” the Norwegian Armed Forces reported. “The four Americans were Marines assigned to 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force.”
“We are immensely grateful for the support of all first responders, the Norwegian Armed Forces, and Allies and partners that contributed various assets and people in the ongoing efforts,” commented the II Marine Expeditionary Force.
The Cold Response exercise was due to continue despite the crash, though the Norwegian Armed Forces reported the inclement weather would require specific measures. The incident is under investigation by both Norwegian and US authorities.
