Boeing Tests MQ-25 Today Before First Flight

By Mark Nankivil

Boeing performed ground tests today on the new MQ-25 T-1 Stingray unmanned aerial tanker testbed at Mid-America Airport, adjacent to Scott AFB, IL, in preparation for the upcoming first flight. Ground crews made several engine runups while checking over the aircraft as it came to life. Following successful flight trials, Boeing will produce four pre-production aircraft to be delivered under the current contract. 

The production MQ-25 is expected to operate from U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and provide needed aerial refueling capability to current and future tactical fighter and strike aircraft types. Boeing has pioneered autonomous flight capability for over a decade, culminating in the MQ-25 program. First flight is expected soon after the ground tests are completed.

Here are some views of today's engine tests: