MQ-25

The MQ-25 Program is a Navy initiative focused on the procurement and deployment of the MQ-25 Carrier Based Unmanned Air System (CBUAS), also referred to as the MQ-25 Unmanned Carrier Aviation (UCA) System. The primary goal of this program is to provide an unmanned aerial refueling capability for Carrier Air Wings (CVWs) embarked on aircraft carriers (CVNs). This capability is intended to extend the operational range of CVWs, address the future CVW-tanker gap, and mitigate the Strike Fighter shortfall. The program also aims to preserve the fatigue life of F/A-18E/F aircraft for their primary missions.

For Fiscal Year 2026, the budget line item LI 0449 - MQ-25 requests funding for the procurement of three Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) MQ-25 aircraft, as well as the advance procurement of long-lead materials necessary to support this production. The program is managed by the Navy, with the Government serving as the Lead Systems Integrator (LSI), ensuring coordination across all segments and stakeholders. The LRIP and LRIP Advanced Procurement contract awards are scheduled for March 2026, with Boeing Co. in St. Louis, MO, as the primary manufacturer.

The MQ-25 system is designed to refuel all carrier-based fixed-wing aircraft capable of aerial refueling and to transmit sensor data to other aircraft, naval vessels, and ground forces at appropriate classification levels. The system is sustainable both onboard aircraft carriers and at shore-based sites, with a focus on minimizing the logistics footprint. The MQ-25 achieves these objectives through a carrier-suitable, semi-autonomous unmanned air segment and the Unmanned Carrier Aviation Mission Control System (UMCS). This includes infrastructure modifications and hardware for NIMITZ and FORD class carriers, as well as operational shore sites.

Procurement details for FY 2026 include funding for engines and accessories, airframes, contractor and government furnished avionics, and refueling pods. Equipment procured includes Advanced Networking Tactical System, Multifunctional Information Distribution System/Joint Tactical Radio System, Conformal-Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna, Advanced Digital Antenna Production - Antenna Electronic, Wideband SATCOM terminals, commercial SATCOM service, Air Refueling Pod, and Airborne Radio Communications. Funding also covers design changes, production tooling, production readiness reviews, obsolescence redesigns, and support equipment for intermediate and depot-level repair capabilities.

Training and support elements are integral to the program, with funding allocated for Mission System Trainer 1 at Pt. Mugu, CA, supporting Fleet Replacement Squadron and NAWCAD Simulation Division. Production support encompasses government and contractor support services, acquisition support, configuration management, initial supportability standup activities, and engineering support. Integrated Logistics Support provides logistics elements for aircraft production and fleet transition, while technical data funding ensures the development and distribution of maintenance repair manuals essential for operation and sustainment.

Initial spares and sustainment funding is included to support MQ-25 fleet operations and deployments beginning in FY 2027. This ensures the establishment of sparing inventory and procurement of long lead-time items required for ongoing fleet operations. The program of record comprises 76 air vehicles, with four Engineering Development Models, five System Demonstration Test Articles, and 67 production aircraft funded through Aircraft Procurement, Navy.

Testing and milestones for the MQ-25 program include Initial Test and Evaluation scheduled from the third quarter of FY 2024 through the fourth quarter of FY 2028, Initial Operational Test and Evaluation from the second to the fourth quarter of FY 2028, and Initial Operational Capability targeted for the third quarter of FY 2027. The FY 2026 budget request supports the procurement and integration of three LRIP MQ-25 aircraft and associated support elements. These investments are intended to advance the Navy's unmanned carrier aviation capabilities and ensure future operational effectiveness.