US Navy Awards Boeing $562 Million MQ-25A Production Contract

The United States Navy awarded a $562 million fixed-price incentive contract to Boeing on September 15, 2026, to begin Lot 1 Low Rate Initial Production of the MQ-25A Stingray. This contract funds the production of three aircraft and the acquisition of long-lead components for three additional Lot 2 aircraft, with initial deliveries expected in 2029.

As the first fully integrated, carrier-based unmanned aerial vehicle, the MQ-25A is designed to provide organic aerial refueling for Carrier Air Wings. This capability allows F/A-18 Super Hornets to focus on strike missions and extends their overall service life. The program recently received Milestone C approval, signaling a transition from the development phase to production and deployment.

The total program of record includes 67 operational and nine test aircraft. However, the Pentagon reports that initial operational capability has been delayed by four years to 2029, citing technical risks and a Boeing Union labor strike. The Navy is continuing flight tests through the end of 2026, following a successful test flight conducted on April 25.