Navy Is Paying $562 Million for Three Pilotless Aerial Tankers to Refuel Fighter Jets

The U.S. Navy has awarded Boeing a $562 million contract for three pilotless MQ-25A Stingray aerial refueling drones, with deliveries starting in 2029. The program, initially designed as a carrier-based unmanned aircraft, has been tested by the Navy, including a first flight earlier this year, and it received Milestone C approval before entering Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP). Under the LRIP requirements, Boeing will deliver the first MQ-25A in 2029, with additional orders for two more lots—three and five drones—expected later. The MQ-25A will be used primarily to refuel F/A-18 Super Hornets, carrying a 15,000-pound (6,800 kg) fuel tank. It is powered by a Rolls-Royce AE 3007N engine and has a range up to 580 miles (930 km).