MQ-25 Stingray

The MQ-25 Stingray is a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) with an Acquisition Category IB designation, operating under the Major Capability Acquisition pathway. This program represents the development and acquisition of an aircraft carrier-based unmanned aerial refueling system for the U.S. Navy. The program is managed through the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and supports the Navy's carrier aviation capabilities.

Recent federal contract awards for the MQ-25 program range from $75,655 to $115.1 million, with performance periods typically spanning two to four years. The Boeing Company serves as a primary contractor, receiving the largest awards for initial spares and long-lead materials for Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP). Other significant contractors include Optowares Inc. for fiber optic repair sets, Frequentis Defense Inc. for SATCC 1/2 rack systems, and various small businesses providing specialized equipment such as Steve Lieber & Associates, Inc. and Norseman Defense Technologies. Notable subcontractors include L3Harris Technologies, Ametek Aerospace & Defense, and Patriot Machine, Inc. The majority of contracts are firm-fixed-price agreements issued without set-aside designations, though some smaller awards utilize Total Small Business set-asides. The Naval Air Systems Command and Naval Air Warfare Center serve as the primary contracting authorities, with work performed across multiple locations including St. Louis, Missouri, Columbia, Maryland, and various contractor facilities.