The first operational MQ-25A Stingray™ for the U.S. Navy has successfully completed its first taxi test.At the push of a button from Air Vehicle Pilots in the Unmanned Carrier Aviation Mission Control System, the Stingray autonomously taxied from the new MQ-25 production facility in Mascoutah, Illinois, to the taxiway at MidAmerica St. Louis airport and executed a series of maneuvers to validate its functionality. The U.S. Navy’s first MQ-25A is now one step closer to its first flight.What’s Boeing’s latest innovation? Subscribe to the Boeing YouTube Channel: @Boeing
Summary
The U.S. Navy has achieved a significant milestone with the first operational MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aerial vehicle successfully completing its inaugural taxi test. This historic event marks a crucial step forward in the development of the aircraft, bringing it closer to its maiden flight. The autonomous vehicle demonstrated its capabilities by moving from the new production facility located in Mascoutah, Illinois, to the taxiway at MidAmerica St. Louis airport.
The maneuver was initiated remotely by Air Vehicle Pilots operating within the Unmanned Carrier Aviation Mission Control System. Upon activation, the Stingray independently navigated the distance and performed a series of specific maneuvers designed to validate its core functionality. This successful ground test confirms that the aircraft systems are performing as expected under controlled conditions. The MQ-25A is designed to provide critical airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support for carrier strike groups. By proving its ability to taxi autonomously, the program has moved one step closer to integrating this advanced technology into naval operations. Boeing continues to develop this platform to enhance maritime domain awareness and ensure fleet readiness through unmanned systems integration.
