MQ 25A Stingray Drone

Full Specifications

The MQ 25A Stingray marks a major shift in how the US Navy plans carrier air operations. It is the first operational unmanned aircraft designed to fly routinely from aircraft carriers. Its main job is simple but critical, aerial refueling. By taking on this task, the MQ 25A frees crewed fighters to focus on combat missions rather than tanker duty.

Design and Purpose

Developed by Boeing for the US Navy, the MQ 25A originates from the United States and is built around endurance, reliability, and safe deck operations. It is optimized for catapult launches and arrested landings, making it fully compatible with Nimitz and Ford class carriers. While not armed, it is a force multiplier that directly increases the combat reach of F A 18 Super Hornets and future F 35C fighters.

Capabilities and Technology

The Stingray can carry roughly 15,000 pounds of fuel for offload to other aircraft. It uses autonomous flight systems for carrier launch and recovery, supported by secure datalinks and shipboard control stations. Its stealth shaped airframe reduces radar signature, though survivability relies more on operating outside contested zones than deep penetration.

The aircraft cruises at high subsonic speed and can remain airborne for more than 12 hours, depending on mission profile. Early test flights have already demonstrated successful refueling of Navy fighters, a key milestone toward operational deployment.

Operational Role

The MQ 25A Stingray Drone is not intended to replace strike drones. Instead, it reshapes the carrier air wing by extending range, improving sortie efficiency, and reducing wear on manned aircraft. As peer competition grows in the Pacific, this added reach is a quiet but decisive advantage.