Video: US Navy tests MQ-25A refueling drone in first autonomous operational flight

The U.S. Navy and Boeing completed the MQ-25A Stingray’s first autonomous operational flight in Illinois.

The drone taxiied, took off, flew a planned route, and landed under ground-control supervision, marking a major program milestone.

The test brings the Navy closer to fielding an unmanned tanker for carrier air wings.

MQ-25A is intended to extend carrier strike range and free crewed fighters like the F/A-18 Super Hornet for combat missions.