The Investor
27 Apr 2026, 22:33
Boeing and the U.S. Navy have successfully completed the first test flight of the operational MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aircraft, marking a key milestone toward carrier-based deployment.
During the two-hour flight, the aircraft demonstrated full autonomous capabilities, including taxiing, takeoff, navigation, and landing, while responding to commands from a ground control station. The test validated flight controls and integration with mission systems.
The MQ-25A is designed as a carrier-based aerial refueling drone, expected to extend the operational range of the Navy’s air wing and enable manned-unmanned teaming. It will allow fighter jets such as the F/A-18 Super Hornet to focus on combat missions rather than refueling roles.
The program will now move into further testing phases before transitioning to carrier qualification trials, bringing the system closer to operational deployment.
Source: PRNewswire
During the two-hour flight, the aircraft demonstrated full autonomous capabilities, including taxiing, takeoff, navigation, and landing, while responding to commands from a ground control station. The test validated flight controls and integration with mission systems.
The MQ-25A is designed as a carrier-based aerial refueling drone, expected to extend the operational range of the Navy’s air wing and enable manned-unmanned teaming. It will allow fighter jets such as the F/A-18 Super Hornet to focus on combat missions rather than refueling roles.
The program will now move into further testing phases before transitioning to carrier qualification trials, bringing the system closer to operational deployment.
Source: PRNewswire