The US Navy has confirmed that the MQ-25 Stingray demonstrator drone, also known as T-1, is currently aboard the USS Nimitz. The drone was seen on the carrier's deck as part of Fleet Exercise 250, a large multi-national event celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The T-1 demonstrator's size is notable, standing out alongside other aircraft on the deck. Production MQ-25s are expected to be an important presence when they enter operational service, which the Navy hopes will start next year.
The Navy is working to get the MQ-25 ready for routine operational use, which will involve integrating the drone into existing flight deck operations and developing new tactics and procedures. The MQ-25 will bring new capabilities to the Navy's carrier air wings, including extending the reach of other aircraft and providing a secondary intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability.
