At the request of the US Navy, Boeing has begun ground trials of the final version of the MQ-25 Stingray tanker drone. This aircraft will be the first drone in the fleet's history capable of refueling other planes in mid-air. Its introduction will free up piloted F/A-18F fighters from their tanker role, significantly extending the range of carrier-based aircraft.

The MQ-25 unit currently being tested is ready for full-scale production. It was assembled at a new facility in Illinois, built specifically for this program. The tests include comprehensive checks of taxiing, the fuel system, and control mechanisms. The drone is equipped with a hose-and-cone refueling system attached to a special pylon on the wing.

The drone's first flight is scheduled for late 2025, with carrier-based trials to begin in 2026. The first wave of production MQ-25s is expected to enter service in 2027. The US Navy plans to acquire 76 of these aircraft, each costing over $160 million.

The drone can transfer up to 7 tons of fuel and remain airborne for up to 10 hours. In addition to refueling, the MQ-25 will perform reconnaissance functions using its built-in optical sensors. In the long term, according to military officials, drones could make up to 60% of the fleet's air wings. The drone will be operated from a special control center on aircraft carriers.

Technically, the MQ-25 Stingray is built in a "flying wing" configuration, is equipped with a Rolls-Royce AE 3007N jet engine, and has a range of over 900 km. Mid-air refueling is conducted fully automatically, without human intervention.

ORIENT