An MQ-25 Stingray experimental drone in flight during tests on April 25. The MQ-25 is set to enter initial production, and could see active service by the end of the year. (Boeing courtesy photo)

Boeing’s MQ-25A Stingray to Begin Low-Rate Initial Production

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The MQ-25A is not a “collaborative combat aircraft” drone; instead, its function is to serve as an aerial refueler, lessening the risk of refueling in contested spaces.

Aerospace giant Boeing’s unmanned aerial tanker is now cleared for low-rate initial production (LRIP), only a month after making its initial flight and reaching Milestone C in its development life cycle.

Three MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from the LRIP Lot 1 are expected to be produced, with an official contract award coming soon. The contract will also include priced options for three more Stingrays in Lot 2 and five aircraft in Lot 3, the United States Navy confirmed.

The final planned program of record calls for a total of 76 MQ-25 Stingrays, including 67 operational UAS refuelers.

“Unmanned refueling extends our reach against any adversary,” stated Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao. “Moving the MQ-25A Stingray to Milestone C and into production is arming our warfighters with a........

© The National Interest