Boeing Wins First Production Contract for MQ-25A Stingray UAV Program
The US Navy has awarded Boeing its first production contract for the MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program, valued at $562 million. The contract funds the low-rate initial production (LRIP) of three aircraft and advanced acquisition of long-lead components to support another three LRIP Lot 2 MQ-25As.
Initial deliveries from the first lot are expected in 2029. This milestone marks a significant transition for the program, which has been progressing steadily since receiving Milestone C approval in May. The MQ-25A will provide the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) with organic refueling capabilities, enabling more F/A-18E/F aircraft to focus on strike missions.
Captain Daniel Fucito, Unmanned Carrier Aviation program manager, noted that this award is a testament to the joint government and industry teams' focused effort. The MQ-25A program of record includes 76 air vehicles, with seven test aircraft currently in production at Boeing's facilities in St. Louis and Mascoutah, Illinois.