Navy, Boeing Make Aviation History with MQ-25 Becoming the First Unmanned Aircraft to Refuel Another Aircraft

Rhea-AI Summary

On June 4, 2021, Boeing's MQ-25 T1 became the first unmanned aircraft to successfully refuel another aircraft, a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet, during a test flight. This milestone was achieved after 25 test flights and marks a significant advancement in unmanned systems integration for defense operations. Boeing aims to enhance the carrier air wing's capabilities by allowing MQ-25 to take over the refueling role currently performed by F/A-18s. Future tests will include deck handling trials in Norfolk, Virginia, later this year.

Positive

• First successful air-to-air refueling by an unmanned aircraft, demonstrating MQ-25's capabilities.
• Potential to enhance operational efficiency by allowing F/A-18s to focus on combat missions.

Negative

• None.

ST. LOUIS, June 7, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in history, the U.S. Navy and Boeing [NYSE: BA] have demonstrated air-to-air refueling using an unmanned aircraft – the Boeing-owned MQ-25™ T1 test asset – to refuel another aircraft.

During a test flight June 4, MQ-25 T1 successfully extended the hose and drogue from its U.S. Navy-issued aerial refueling store (ARS) and safely transferred jet fuel to a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet, demonstrating the MQ-25 Stingray's ability to carry out its primary aerial refueling mission.

"This team of professionals was integral in the successful flight," said Rear Adm. Brian Corey, who oversees the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons.  "Over the next few years, we will work side-by-side with Boeing to deliver this capability that will greatly enhance the future carrier air wing."

"This history-making event is a credit to our joint Boeing and Navy team that is all-in on delivering MQ-25's critical aerial refueling capability to the fleet as soon as possible," said Leanne Caret, president and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. "Their work is the driving force behind the safe and secure integration of unmanned systems in the immediate future of defense operations."

During the initial part of the flight, the F/A-18 test pilot flew in close formation behind MQ-25 to ensure performance and stability prior to refueling – a maneuver that required as little as 20 feet of separation between the MQ-25 T1 air vehicle and the F/A-18 refueling probe. Both aircraft were flying at operationally relevant speeds and altitudes. With the evaluation safely completed, the MQ-25 drogue was extended, and the F/A-18 pilot moved in to "plug" with the unmanned aircraft and receive the scheduled fuel offload.

The milestone comes after 25 T1 flights, testing both aircraft and ARS aerodynamics across the flight envelope, as well as extensive simulations of aerial refueling using MQ-25 digital models. MQ-25 T1 will continue flight testing prior to being shipped to Norfolk, Virginia, for deck handling trials aboard a U.S. Navy carrier later this year.

The Boeing-owned T1 test asset is a predecessor to the seven test aircraft Boeing is manufacturing under a 2018 contract award. The MQ-25 will assume the tanking role currently performed by F/A-18s, allowing for better use of the combat strike fighters and helping extend the range of the carrier air wing.

For more information on Boeing Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As the top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.

MQ-25 is a trademark of the Department of the Navy.

Contact:
Ashlee Erwin
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
+1 314-239-9944
ashlee.i.erwin@boeing.com 

Justin Gibson
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
+1 314-708-6293
justin.l.gibson@boeing.com

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SOURCE Boeing

FAQ

What is the significance of the MQ-25 T1 test flight on June 4, 2021?

The MQ-25 T1 became the first unmanned aircraft to refuel another aircraft, marking a historic milestone for Boeing and the U.S. Navy.

How many test flights has the MQ-25 T1 completed?

The MQ-25 T1 has completed 25 test flights before the successful refueling event.

What role will the MQ-25 play in the U.S. Navy?

The MQ-25 will assume the tanking role currently performed by F/A-18s, improving the efficiency of the carrier air wing.

When will the MQ-25 undergo deck handling trials?

Deck handling trials for the MQ-25 are scheduled to take place in Norfolk, Virginia, later this year.

What aircraft was refueled during the MQ-25 test flight?

The aircraft refueled during the test flight was a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet.