In a first for U.S. naval aviation, an unmanned drone acted as an airborne tanker for an F-18. If the concept is proven and judged to be safe, it would free up manned aircraft for other missions. The future of naval air? EDI come to basic life?
An unmanned tanker aircraft has successfully refueled a US Navy carrier-based fighter jet for the first time, the Navy announced Monday.
A Boeing MQ-25 Stingray test drone refueled an F/A-18 Super Hornet on Friday near MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah, Illinois, demonstrating that the new unmanned aircraft "can fulfill its tanker mission," the Navy said.
https://www.businessinsider.com/stingray-drone-refuels-aircraft-carrier-fighter-jet-for-first-time-2021-6The only problem I have with the story is that it makes it sound as though the F-18 pilot didn't do anything. In reality the pilot getting refueled has to maneuver into position to hook up with the refueling drogue.
Other than that, probably a long over due addition to the Navy.
What's the point of an open door policy if inside the open door sits a closed mind?