Boeing advances drone tanker coordination with new software test

Boeing has successfully tested software designed to link crewed aircraft with unmanned MQ-25A Stingray drone tankers, advancing a key capability for the U.S. Navy. The Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) software was demonstrated during the Emerald Flag military exercise at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. While the MQ-25A itself was not involved, the test used a Beechcraft 1900D and an E90 King Air to showcase airborne command-and-control communications over the Link 16 network.

The software, developed in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, employs open-architecture command-and-control messaging to allow seamless coordination between manned and unmanned aircraft. Boeing plans to first integrate this capability into the MQ-25A Stingray and the F/A-18 Super Hornet after further testing. The goal is to enable pilots to direct or coordinate with the unmanned tanker, enhancing refueling operations and mission flexibility.

The MQ-25A Stingray is designed to provide aerial refueling for Navy carrier air wings, freeing up fighter jets like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets for strike missions. The software demonstration comes as the MQ-25A program progresses toward production, with the Navy awarding Boeing a $562 million contract in September for the first low-rate initial production lot. Deliveries from this lot are expected to begin in 2029.

Boeing emphasizes that additional test flights are needed before the software can be integrated into the operational aircraft. Successful integration could enable closer coordination between crewed fighters and autonomous support aircraft, making aerial refueling more flexible during carrier operations.