Cherokee Federal Recognized as Team Osprey Supplier of the Year
In a significant moment for Cherokee Federal, the company was awarded the esteemed title of Supplier of the Year by Team Osprey, a collective of industry and military leaders dedicated to supporting the V-22 Osprey program. This prestigious recognition, announced during the 2026 Annual Team Osprey Working Group Conference, underscores Cherokee Federal's two decades of commitment and high-quality performance in the defense sector.
A Legacy of Excellence
For over 20 years, Cherokee Federal has been integral to the V-22 Osprey program, specifically in producing essential electrical wire harnesses and cables for this military tiltrotor aircraft used by the U.S. armed forces globally. The award was based on the company's outstanding supplier performance, showcasing a consistent track record of delivering quality products on time, as well as its continuous investments in production capabilities.
Tom Watson, president of Cherokee Federal, emphasized the importance of trust and commitment highlighted by the award, stating that it reflects the hard work of the skilled employees who contribute daily to mission success. "Our years of support for the V-22 program reflect the trust our customers place in Cherokee Federal, and importantly, in our people," said Watson.
Collaborative Innovation
Cherokee Federal's recognition comes in part due to its collaborative efforts in overcoming production challenges and driving continuous improvement in efficiency. The firm has made significant investments in securing long-lead materials to safeguard production schedules while enhancing capital equipment and automation processes to foster cost reduction and efficiency in future projects.
Chris Moody, Executive General Manager at Cherokee Federal, remarked, "This award is especially meaningful because it recognizes the people behind this work and the responsibility they carry every day." The pride in their contributions resonates strongly within the community, particularly as the operations take place on the Cherokee Nation reservation in Stilwell, Oklahoma.
Commitment to Future Readiness
In addition to its ongoing contributions to the V-22 program, Cherokee Federal is actively participating in initiatives aimed at improving the aircraft's readiness and sustainability. This includes works focused on enhancing the V-22's reliability and ease of maintenance, ensuring that it remains capable and supportable throughout its lifecycle.
As the collaboration continues with Bell Boeing, Cherokee Federal is looking toward the future, committed to adapting to the evolving needs of the V-22 program. Their promises of innovation and quality suggest that they will remain a key player in the aerospace defense sector, supporting military operations with reliability and excellence.
To learn more about Cherokee Federal and their mission-driven work, visit
cherokee-federal.com.
About Cherokee Federal
Cherokee Federal is the federal contracting division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, the largest Native American tribe in the U.S. Their mission is to cultivate an innovative team that tackles some of America's greatest challenges, serving the Cherokee Nation with strong dedication and heart. For additional insights on their services and initiatives, check out their social media platforms including LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and YouTube.