Uncrewed tanker returns to sea aboard US aircraft carrier

Uncrewed tanker returns to sea aboard US aircraft carrier centers on the Boeing-owned MQ-25 Stingray, which resumed carrier operations after a five-year gap. The MQ-25 T1 test demonstrator, previously used for deck-handling trials in 2021 aboard the USS George HW Bush, appeared on the flight deck of the USS Nimitz, shown in photos released on 26 June. The single-engined jet sits along the yellow-and-white centerline near the number three catapult, with its folding wings fully extended. Boeing says the aircraft is taking part in the U.S. Navy’s carrier air wing future concept during the 250th anniversary events, with commemorative “250” markings; the anniversary falls on 4 July. During an exercise labeled FLEETEX 250 on 29 July, the MQ-25 will later sail to New York for a naval review, following a milestone at sea. Boeing added that the MQ-25 can fly autonomously from land, but it is not expected to fly during the current cruise. Separately, the Pentagon approved Milestone C in May for low-rate initial production to start later this year, with an initial operational capability now slipping from 2027 to 2029.