The US Navy’s first production-representative MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial refueling aircraft has completed its initial autonomous taxi test, moving under its own power and performing ground maneuvers as part of final ground testing before its anticipated first flight. The milestone at Boeing’s MidAmerica Airport is a key step toward carrier integration and validates elements like steering, braking, and control systems, bringing the program closer to operational aircraft carrier operations. The MQ-25’s primary role is to extend the range of Navy fighters through aerial refueling, with possible additional intelligence and surveillance capabilities in the future.

The first operational MQ-25A Stingray™ for the @USNavy has successfully completed its first taxi test.

At the push of a button from Air Vehicle Pilots the Stingray autonomously taxied and executed a series of maneuvers to validate its functionality. pic.twitter.com/bNHGKIYsPa

— Boeing Defense (@BoeingDefense) January 30, 2026

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