MQ-25 development progresses as new contracts possible
In 2021, the MQ-25 completed deck trials and LRIP contracts are on the way, according to Boeing. (Photo: Boeing)
Boeing has said it is anticipating three low-rate initial production (LRIP) contracts from the US Navy for its MQ-25 Stingray carrier-based refuelling UAS. Each contract would be for three platforms with the first order expected to be placed next year.
Aside from these orders from the US Navy, Boeing has been contracted for 11 flying articles, specifically for engineering development model platforms, five system demonstration aircraft – two of which were funded under a recent contract – and two non-flying static and fatigue test articles. The company has funded and built a single aircraft as part of the development project.
One aircraft has been delivered
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
Norway cleared for possible $2.6 billion HH-60W helicopter FMS
The possible sale for nine HH-60W by the US government could make Norway the first Foreign Military Sale customer for the rescue and combat helicopter and add to the country’s ongoing acquisition of Sikorsky-made helicopters.
-
Bell selected over Boeing to build DARPA SPRINT X-Plane
The programme first began in 2023 with Bell and Boeing’s concepts progressing to Phase 1B, in which testing has been carried out over the last year.
-
National Audit Office report highlights major delays in UK’s F-35 programme
The report discloses that while the capability provided by the F-35 is superior to previous UK aircraft, delays from the UK Ministry of Defence on the programme have significantly impacted the country’s warfighting capabilities.
-
France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production
The new ‘Entente Industrielle’ will work on a range of other projects to boost the UK economy and defence industry, including joint development on new high-tech frequency weapons and extended range air-to-air missiles.
-
Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports
The E-7A is one of three aircraft submitted for the South Korean AEW&C II competition, which seeks to acquire four more aircraft of the type for its air force by 2028.