Test moves Stingray closer to teaming with fleet aircraft

Boeing has developed Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) software and successfully tested it during an Emerald Flag military exercise at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. 

• For the test, Boeing engineers uploaded the software onto a 1900 D Beechcraft and an E90 King Air. While in flight, Boeing test pilots demonstrated the software’s ability to enable command and control between the two aircraft over Link 16, the primary communications network for the U.S. military.

Why it matters: The software’s open architecture command-and-control messaging supports MUM-T across Link 16 — a capability that will enable the unmanned MQ‑25A Stingray^TM to operate seamlessly with manned strike and tanker aircraft.

• “Integrating this software into the MQ‑25A will give manned platforms control of aircraft, turning the tanker into a force-multiplier that streamlines refueling operations and expands mission reach,” said Kayla Stice, MQ-25 Advanced Design program manager.

Driving the news: Through collaboration with the U.S. Navy, Boeing teammates across Phantom Works, MQ-25, F/A-18 and F-22 have worked together to develop a platform-agnostic software that could serve numerous platforms across the U.S. Navy and Air Force, with the goal of deploying the capability first on the MQ-25A Stingray and F/A-18 Super Hornet once it is fully tested and evaluated. 

• “Having this software embedded into the MQ-25A, we enable autonomous coordination with manned platforms — improving tanker responsiveness, reducing logistical friction, and multiplying the carrier strike group’s operational tempo,” said Mark Dunn, MQ-25 Avionics Integrated Product Team lead.

What’s next: Once validated through ongoing additional test flights, this capability will be integrated into the operational MQ-25A’s software in the future, enabling seamless teaming communications for carrier‑based refueling and coordinated strike support.

By Kelsey Chadwick