Boeing's Unmanned MQ-25 Tanker Nears Operational Service with US Navy
The US Navy has taken a significant step towards integrating unmanned aircraft into its carrier operations by awarding Boeing a $562 million contract to produce three MQ-25A Stingray tankers. The fixed-price incentive contract covers initial production and funds long-lead components for additional aircraft.
The MQ-25 is designed to perform aerial refueling from aircraft carriers, freeing up crewed fighters for combat missions. With its ability to transfer at least 14,000 pounds of fuel at a range of 500 nautical miles, the Stingray will give carrier aircraft another way to extend their reach.
Boeing's production award follows a major milestone earlier this year when the Navy granted the MQ-25 Milestone C approval in May. The program has experienced delays due to technical risks and a Boeing labor strike, but the Navy expects initial deliveries of Lot 1 aircraft to begin in 2029.