Boeing Validates Software for Future Manned Unmanned Refueli
Stay informed with our
free newsletters

Boeing Validates Software for Future Manned Unmanned Refueling Missions

  • Software advancing after years of development and testing; now encompassing real aircraft hardware
  • Results significantly reduce communication time between F/A-18 pilots and unmanned MQ-25 Stingrays

Boeing [NYSE: BA] has advanced its manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) technology using a digital F/A-18 Super Hornet and MQ-25 Stingray. The testing shows the software is maturing for future U.S. Navy use and a potential to deploy the teaming capability on both F/A-18 Block II and III Super Hornets.

In a simulator lab, a Boeing-led team virtually demonstrated an F/A-18 pilot commanding an unmanned MQ-25 to release a refueling drogue and refuel the Super Hornet, using existing communications links on both platforms.

The new software is a maturation of tests Boeing has previously done. In addition to the upgraded software, test teams pulled in hardware and datalinks already installed on both platforms to run the finalized software further proving Boeing’s readiness to deliver this capability to the Navy.   

Combat Aircraft - Market and Technology Forecast to 2033

Combat Aircraft - Market and Technology Forecast to 2033

Market forecasts by Region, Type, and Fitment. Technologies and Market Overview, Critical Raw Materials, Country Analysis, Opportunity Analysis, and Leading Companies

Download free sample pages More information

“MQ-25 is designed to typically receive commands from air vehicle pilots on an aircraft carrier. This software will add a second option, enabling pilots to initiate commands right from their cockpit,” said Alex Ewing, F/A-18 New Product Development lead.

The Boeing-created software will significantly reduce the time it takes for an F/A-18 to communicate with an MQ-25, giving pilots greater flexibility in refueling from longer distances.

“The goal of the demonstrations was to make MUM-T refueling as real as possible,” said Juan Cajigas, director, Advanced MQ-25 program. “Aerial refueling is like a ballet as two airplanes come together. To be able to direct the activities via a single pilot, safely and efficiently, is a major step forward in aerial refueling technology.”


Publishdate:
May 1, 2024

Military Flight Training USA 2025 Conference

Military Flight Training USA 2025 Conference

San Antonio, TX
Oct 28 - 29, 2025

View agenda
Counter UAS Maritime Conference 2025

Counter UAS Maritime Conference 2025

London, United Kingdom
Oct 20 - 21, 2025

View agenda