Boeing Secures $562 Million Contract for First Operational MQ-25A Stingrays

The US Navy has awarded Boeing a $562-million contract to begin low-rate initial production of the MQ-25A Stingray drone tanker.

This significant development moves the carrier-based uncrewed refueling aircraft from development toward operational service, marking a crucial milestone for the program.

The contract funds three Lot 1 Stingrays and the advance acquisition of long-lead components for three Lot 2 aircraft. This phase of production brings the MQ-25A closer to its intended role as an autonomous aerial refueling system for carrier-based aircraft.