Boeing tests software that connects Super Hornet fighters with MQ-25A drone tankers

Boeing has demonstrated software designed to let pilots in crewed aircraft coordinate with unmanned aircraft over a military communications network, advancing plans to integrate the capability into the U.S. Navy’s MQ-25A Stingray aerial refueling drone.

The Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) software was tested during the Emerald Flag military exercise at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Boeing installed the software on a Beechcraft 1900D and an E90 King Air, allowing test pilots to demonstrate airborne command-and-control communications between the two aircraft using Link 16.

The test did not involve the MQ-25A itself. Instead, it demonstrated a communications capability that Boeing plans to integrate into the unmanned tanker after further testing and evaluation.

Software aims to connect crewed and uncrewed aircraft

According to Boeing, the software uses open-architecture command-and-control messaging over Link 16, a tactical data network widely used by U.S. and allied military forces to exchange information between compatible platforms.

The system is designed to support manned-unmanned teaming across multiple aircraft types rather than being tied to a single airframe. Boeing developed the software in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, drawing on teams working across its Phantom Works, MQ-25, F/A-18 and F-22 programs.

The company plans to introduce the capability first on the MQ-25A Stingray and F/A-18 Super Hornet once testing and evaluation are complete. The intended result is to let crews aboard manned aircraft direct or coordinate with the unmanned tanker, helping it respond to changing refueling requirements during a mission.

“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, Boeing’s MQ-25 Advanced Design program manager.

The demonstration marks progress toward that capability, but Boeing says additional test flights are still needed before the software can be integrated into the operational aircraft.

MQ-25A could free fighters for strike missions

The MQ-25A Stingray is being developed to provide carrier-based aerial refueling for the Navy’s carrier air wings. By taking over much of the refueling work currently performed by F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, the unmanned aircraft is intended to let more fighters focus on their primary strike missions while extending the range of carrier operations.

The Navy describes the Stingray as a key step toward integrating unmanned aircraft into carrier operations. Its role includes both providing fuel and helping establish the infrastructure and procedures needed to operate uncrewed aircraft alongside crewed fighters at sea.

MUM-T software could add another layer to that integration by enabling pilots in compatible aircraft to coordinate with the tanker through an existing military data network. Boeing says the capability is intended to improve tanker responsiveness, reduce logistical friction and support coordinated strike operations.

Mark Dunn, Boeing’s MQ-25 Avionics Integrated Product Team lead, said embedding the software in the Stingray would enable autonomous coordination with crewed platforms and increase carrier strike group operational tempo.

Production moves ahead as testing continues

The software demonstration comes as the MQ-25A program advances toward production. In September, the U.S. Navy awarded Boeing a $562 million contract for the first low-rate initial production lot, covering three aircraft and advance procurement for components supporting another three. Initial deliveries from the first lot are expected to begin in 2029, according to the U.S. Navy.

The Stingray completed its first flight as an operational MQ-25A in April 2026, demonstrating autonomous taxiing, takeoff, flight and landing under the supervision of the Navy and Boeing test teams.

The new MUM-T software remains a separate capability under development. Further flight tests must validate it before Boeing can integrate it into the MQ-25A’s operational software.

If successful, the integration would help the Navy move beyond operating unmanned tankers as remotely supervised assets toward closer coordination between crewed fighters and autonomous support aircraft. That could make aerial refueling more flexible during carrier operations, although the scope of control and the missions supported will depend on the capability ultimately tested and fielded.