Boeing has unveiled its candidate for the U.S. Navy's MQ-25 unmanned refuelling aircraft programme.
Boeing has taken the wraps off its candidate unmanned aircraft system (UAS) for refuelling U.S. Navy jets operating from aircraft carriers.
Through its MQ-25 competition, the Navy is seeking unmanned refueling capabilities that would extend the combat range of deployed Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, Boeing EA-18G Growler, and Lockheed Martin F-35C fighters.
The MQ-25 — an outgrowth of the earlier Unmanned Carrier Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) programme — will also have to seamlessly integrate with a carrier’s catapult and launch and recovery systems.
The Boeing UAS is completing engine runs before heading to the flight ramp for deck handling demonstrations early next year.
The Navy issued its final request for proposals in October. Proposals are due by 3rd January.
Alongside Boeing, bids are expected from Lockheed Martin and General Atomics.
Northrop Grumman, whose unmanned X-47B has already demonstrated its ability to operate from a carrier and has performed aerial refuelling trials with an Omega Air KC-707 tanker, has said it will not compete on the MQ-25 programme.