I can accept the notion that the 609 (and tilt rotors in general) are a magnificent technical achievement. So far, however, these seem to be a huge bundle of compromises. One could purchase a new S76 and King Air B200 and have enough left over to operate both for several years without spending what a new 609 is projected to cost. Both of these aircraft will do a better job re their part of the mission too! One has to want or need the combined capability a very badly to go with the 609. Some will say that this is the entire point, but these will be few in number, and as other have suggested, this points to a small market.
EN48