Tulsa – October 28, 2026 -- Cherokee Federal, the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, has been named the 2026 Team Osprey Supplier of the Year after more than 20 years of supplying electrical wire harnesses and cables for the V-22 Osprey.
Team Osprey, a group of industry, government and military leaders supporting the V-22 program, announced the award at its 2026 Annual Team Osprey Working Group Conference. The event gathers leaders and suppliers from across the V-22 industrial base.
Cherokee Federal earns award for on-schedule delivery and production investment
The company was recognized for responsiveness, consistent delivery of quality products on schedule, and proactive investment in production and long-term sustainment. Cherokee Federal employees perform the work in Stilwell, Oklahoma, on the Cherokee Nation reservation.
Cherokee Federal has secured long-lead materials to protect production schedules. It is also investing in capital equipment and automation intended to raise efficiency and reduce costs in future procurements. Team Osprey also cited the company's collaborative approach to overcoming production challenges.
Supplier contributes to V-22 sustainment and nacelle improvement work
Cherokee Federal is contributing to sustainment and nacelle improvement initiatives focused on V-22 readiness, reliability and maintainability. The work supports efforts to keep the tiltrotor aircraft capable, affordable and supportable across its lifecycle. The company continues to work alongside Bell Boeing on the program's evolving sustainment needs.
Cherokee Federal President Tom Watson said the recognition "belongs to the team" behind more than two decades of V-22 support.