In a joint test operation, Boeing and the US Navy successfully refuelled a piloted F-18/A from Boeing’s MQ-25 T1 unmanned drone.  This marked the first time in aviation history such a fete was achieved and opens the door to more test flights over the coming months.  Milestone achieved; Mission accomplished for both parties.

Up to this point, Boeing had flown twenty-five MQ25 test flights as well as multiple flight simulations in different weather and wind scenarios to prove the capability of the UAV before the real life scenario was attempted, high in the skies over land.

“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.“

Rear Adm. Brian Corey, who oversees the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons, said “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.”

After more test flights this year, the plan calls for the MQ-25 T1 to be taken to Norfolk, Virginia, for deck handling trials aboard a U.S. Navy carrier later in 2021.

Photo courtesy of Boeing.