U.S. Navy’s First Carrier Operated Unmanned Tanker Cleared for Production

the U.S. Navy's MQ-25A Stingray unmanned tanker has been cleared for serial production:

· 🎯 Production Authorization: U.S. Navy Secretary announced the MQ-25A "Stingray" has passed "Milestone C," marking its transition from development to Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP).
· ⛽️ Dedicated Unmanned Tanker: It is the first carrier-based unmanned aircraft designed specifically as an aerial refueling tanker, revolutionizing Air Wing logistics.
· 🛩️ F/A-18 Mission Relief: Designed to offload the "buddy tanker" role from F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, freeing them for primary strike and combat air patrol missions.
· ✈️ Autonomous Flight: The Navy-owned MQ-25 conducted a first test flight on April 25, 2026, lasting over two hours, and successfully demonstrated autonomous taxi, takeoff, navigation, and landing.
· 🛜 Proven Refueling System: Uses the "Cobham" aerial refueling store with a probe-and-drogue system (same as Super Hornets), allowing it to service F-35C and E-2D aircraft.
· 🧩 High Stealth & Future Potential: While currently unarmed, the stealthy design and ultra-long range offer potential for future modifications as an armed "loyal wingman" with missiles.
· 📊 Production & Cost: Three MQ-25As were procured in FY2026, with three more planned for FY2027 at $771M, totaling about $209M per aircraft.
· 🚀 Long-term Orders: The Navy aims to procure 76 airframes total (9 test, 67 production).
· 🤝 Key Subcontractors: Boeing builds the MQ-25 at a 300,000-square-foot facility in Illinois. Rolls-Royce provides the AE 3007N engine, and BAE is also involved.
· 📅 Operational Timeline: Initial Operational Capability (IOC) currently delayed to early 2029, with first carrier qualification trials scheduled for late 2026.