The USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) now stands as a pioneering vessel in the U.S. Navy’s fleet, being the first to house a fully dedicated Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC). This development marks a significant milestone in naval aviation, promising to reshape the operational dynamics of aircraft carriers with the integration of unmanned systems like the MQ-25 Stingray tankers and future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).
The creation of the UAWC was formally announced by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in a press release issued today, highlighting a strategic advancement in unmanned aviation capabilities aboard naval vessels. The UAWC operates out of a specially designed control room onboard CVN-77, which serves as the nerve center for the deployment and management of unmanned aircraft systems. This control room features the Unmanned Carrier Aviation Mission Control System (UMCS) MD-5E Ground Control Station (GCS), which is the first of its kind to be fully operational and integrated onboard an aircraft carrier.
The design and development of the UMCS MD-5E, which involved collaboration between the Navy and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works, underscores a leap in technological integration for naval operations. The multi-domain combat system, known as MDCX, is the powerhouse behind the GCS, equipped with state-of-the-art software and supporting hardware that streamline the operation of unmanned aircraft.
Image: The first installation of the Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC) aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), where air vehicle pilots will control future MQ-25™ Stingray airborne operations. (U.S. Navy photo)
A picture of General Atomics’ Certifiable Ground Control Station (CGCS) for use with the MQ-9. GA-ASI
The process of integrating the UAWC into the George H.W. Bush involved multiple stakeholders, including program offices, systems commands, and shipyards, ensuring that the system was seamlessly incorporated into existing network architectures on the carrier. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Webster Outlying Field Alteration Installation Team, along with AirWorks and Lockheed Martin, played critical roles in the physical installation of the UAWC. Meanwhile, Naval Sea Systems Command, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and the crew of CVN 77 coordinated the logistics, schedules, and equipment necessary for this ambitious project.
The importance of this development is further evidenced by the visible setup of the UAWC control room, which closely resembles other high-tech unmanned ground control stations used by the U.S. Air Force for drones such as the MQ-1 Predators and MQ-9 Reapers. These stations feature sophisticated arrays of monitors and tablet-like devices essential for the precise control and monitoring of unmanned missions.
Historically, the development of the MD-5 family of GCSs dates back to the early 2010s, originally connected to the Navy’s Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program. This initiative later transitioned into the less ambitious Carrier-Based Aerial-Refueling System (CBARS) program, culminating in the creation of the MQ-25 Stingray. The primary role of the MQ-25 is to extend the operational reach of the carrier air wing by taking over the aerial refueling duties from F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighters, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and capability of the fleet. Additionally, the MQ-25 is equipped with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, and there are ongoing discussions about expanding its role to include stand-off strike missions.
The operational integration of the UAWC is set to continue, with plans for the first at-sea testing of the operational networks scheduled for early next year. This testing will build on initial simulations conducted aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and will involve Air Vehicle Pilots (AVPs) from the Unmanned Carrier-Launched Multi-Role Squadron (VUQ) 10 operating the MD-5 GCS from an aircraft carrier for the first time. These tests are crucial for validating the functionality and effectiveness of the UMCS in real-world naval operations.
The broader implications of the UAWC for the U.S. Navy are profound. As stated by Capt. Daniel Fucito, head of PMA-268, the UAWC lays the groundwork for future operations and control of unmanned vehicles within the Navy, starting with the MQ-25 but eventually expanding to include other unmanned systems. This initiative is part of a larger vision that sees a significant portion of future carrier air wings being comprised of unmanned aircraft, fundamentally transforming the composition and capabilities of naval aviation.
Looking ahead, other Navy vessels, including Nimitz and Ford class carriers as well as big deck amphibious assault ships, are expected to receive similar upgrades. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division and the Office of Naval Research are exploring new technologies for launching and recovering high volumes of low-cost aircraft from these and other ships, signaling a comprehensive shift toward more versatile and technologically advanced naval forces.
The establishment of the UAWC on the USS George H.W. Bush not only highlights the Navy’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies but also sets a benchmark for the future of unmanned naval warfare. As these technologies evolve and their applications expand, the strategic implications for the U.S. Navy and its global posture are likely to be substantial, heralding a new era of naval capability and warfare sophistication.
The strategic shift towards unmanned systems is not only reshaping the operational tactics of the U.S. Navy but also aligning with broader defense objectives that emphasize versatility, sustainability, and force multiplication. This transition is seen as a critical step towards maintaining technological superiority and operational readiness in an era of rapid technological advancements and changing geopolitical landscapes.
The integration of unmanned systems extends beyond mere technological upgrades. It involves a comprehensive rethink of naval strategies and doctrines, aiming to exploit the full potential of unmanned technologies in enhancing the operational flexibility and reach of naval forces. The concept of unmanned systems operating alongside manned systems in a hybrid model suggests a future where human pilots and autonomous systems collaborate to achieve complex missions, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of naval operations.
The anticipation for the operational deployment of the MQ-25 and other unmanned systems is high, given their potential to significantly reduce the workload on crewed aircraft and to provide new capabilities that were previously unfeasible due to human limitations. For instance, unmanned systems can undertake prolonged missions without concerns about pilot fatigue, operate in environments that are too dangerous for crewed aircraft, and perform tasks that require precision and persistence over extended periods.
Image: GHWB Operates the MQ-25 Aircraft – source – Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Roberson – USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77
Furthermore, the technological foundations established by the UAWC are set to evolve. The Navy’s plan to introduce similar systems on other carriers and potentially other classes of warships indicates a long-term commitment to integrating unmanned systems into the naval fleet. This not only enhances the capabilities of individual ships but also transforms the operational dynamics of entire battle groups.
The collaboration between the Navy and industry partners like Lockheed Martin in developing the UMCS MD-5E GCS is a testament to the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing military technologies. These collaborations ensure that the most advanced and effective systems are developed by leveraging the strengths and expertise of both sectors.
The Navy’s proactive approach to testing and evaluating these systems in real-world scenarios aboard carriers like the USS George H.W. Bush and USS Abraham Lincoln reflects a methodical strategy to ensure that the systems are robust, reliable, and effective before being deployed fleet-wide. These tests are crucial in identifying potential issues and refining the systems to meet the exacting demands of naval operations.
Moreover, the potential expansion of unmanned systems to other platforms, such as amphibious assault ships, highlights the adaptability and scalability of these technologies. The request for information on new methods to launch and recover high volumes of low-cost aircraft from various naval vessels underscores the Navy’s intent to broaden the utility of unmanned systems across a range of naval operations, from surveillance and reconnaissance to combat and logistics.
As the Navy continues to advance its unmanned capabilities, the role of human operators is also evolving. Training programs for UAV operators are being enhanced to equip them with the skills required to manage advanced systems like the MQ-25. The development of these training programs is as critical as the technological development of the drones themselves, ensuring that the personnel are as prepared as the technology they will operate.
The impact of these advancements extends beyond the immediate tactical and operational enhancements. Strategically, the integration of unmanned systems into the Navy’s arsenal is a clear indicator of the U.S. military’s commitment to maintaining a technological edge in a rapidly changing global security environment. It also reflects a broader shift within the military towards more autonomous, networked, and agile forces capable of responding more effectively to emerging threats and operational demands.
In conclusion, the establishment of the UAWC on the USS George H.W. Bush represents a significant forward leap in naval warfare capabilities. It underscores the Navy’s vision for the future of naval aviation and sets the stage for a transformation that will eventually permeate all levels of naval operations. As this technology continues to evolve and integrate within the fleet, the implications for global naval strategy and the role of the carrier in modern warfare will continue to grow, ultimately defining the future trajectory of naval warfare in the 21st century.
Unmasking the Unseen: The Covert Dynamics of the Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC) Inside Carriers
In the intricate web of global military power, the Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC) inside carriers emerges as a crucial but often overlooked node. This report seeks to unravel the complexities surrounding UAWC, its role within the broader context of unmanned aerial warfare, and the geopolitical machinations that it influences and is influenced by. The UAWC is not just a military installation; it is a manifestation of the strategic shift towards autonomous systems in modern warfare, a shift that carries profound implications for global power dynamics.
The UAWC inside carriers represents a leap in naval warfare, where the convergence of advanced technology, strategic foresight, and geopolitical ambition is most evident. Located within the confines of an aircraft carrier, the UAWC is at the heart of operationalizing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in maritime environments. These centers are designed to coordinate, control, and optimize the deployment of UAVs for various missions, ranging from reconnaissance and surveillance to precision strikes and electronic warfare.
The Strategic Shift Towards Unmanned Aerial Systems
The evolution of warfare has always been marked by the integration of new technologies that redefine the rules of engagement. In this context, the rise of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) marks a paradigm shift that could potentially alter the balance of power. The UAWC plays a pivotal role in this shift, serving as the command and control hub for these autonomous systems. The deployment of UAVs from carriers allows for a greater reach, flexibility, and operational efficiency, enabling naval forces to project power with reduced risk to human life.
The UAWC’s operations are not limited to traditional military engagements. These centers also play a critical role in intelligence gathering, electronic warfare, and cyber operations, making them a key asset in both kinetic and non-kinetic military strategies. The ability to launch, control, and recover UAVs from a carrier offers a significant strategic advantage, particularly in contested environments where manned aircraft may face substantial risks.
Geopolitical Implications and the Global Power Play
The UAWC’s significance extends beyond its immediate military capabilities. It is a symbol of the ongoing geopolitical competition among major powers, particularly the United States, China, and Russia, all of whom are investing heavily in unmanned systems. The ability to control the skies without risking pilots has become a critical aspect of modern military strategy, and the UAWC is at the forefront of this development.
For the United States, the UAWC represents a continuation of its strategy to maintain air superiority and project power globally. By integrating UAVs into its carrier strike groups, the U.S. Navy can enhance its operational capabilities while reducing the vulnerabilities associated with manned aircraft. This move is particularly important in the context of the Indo-Pacific region, where the U.S. faces increasing challenges from China’s growing naval power and its own advancements in unmanned systems.
China, on the other hand, views the UAWC and the broader UAS landscape as an area where it can challenge U.S. dominance. The Chinese military has been rapidly expanding its UAV capabilities, both in terms of quantity and sophistication. The development of the Chinese carrier-based UAVs, supported by their own UAWCs, reflects Beijing’s ambitions to extend its influence in the South China Sea and beyond. The geopolitical stakes are high, as control over these unmanned systems could tip the balance of power in the region.
Russia, while trailing behind the U.S. and China in some aspects of UAV technology, has also recognized the strategic value of unmanned systems. The Russian military’s focus has been on developing advanced UAVs for both reconnaissance and strike missions, which are increasingly being integrated into its naval operations. The UAWC within Russian carriers, though less publicized, plays a similar role in coordinating these unmanned assets, particularly in contested areas like the Black Sea and the Arctic.
The Network of Nations, Organizations, and Key Individuals
The development and operationalization of UAWCs are not solely the result of military planning. They are the product of a complex network involving defense contractors, technological firms, and geopolitical strategists. In the United States, companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman are key players in developing the technologies that make UAWCs possible. These companies, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and the U.S. Navy, have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in unmanned warfare.
Similarly, in China, state-owned enterprises such as the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) and the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) are at the forefront of developing UAV technologies. These entities work closely with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to ensure that China’s UAWCs are equipped with the latest advancements in unmanned systems. The involvement of these organizations reflects the central role that state-controlled industries play in China’s military modernization efforts.
In Russia, the development of UAVs and UAWCs has been driven by a combination of state-owned defense companies and private firms. Companies like Kronstadt Group and Sukhoi are leading the charge in developing advanced UAVs, while the Russian Navy integrates these technologies into its carrier operations. The role of these companies highlights the hybrid nature of Russia’s military-industrial complex, where state and private interests are often intertwined.
Key individuals also play a significant role in the development and deployment of UAWCs. In the United States, figures like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel have been influential in pushing the boundaries of unmanned technology, both through their companies (SpaceX, Palantir) and their influence on defense policy. In China, military leaders like Admiral Yuan Yubai, who has overseen the expansion of the PLA Navy’s UAV capabilities, are key figures in the country’s unmanned warfare strategy. In Russia, individuals like Sergei Shoigu, the Minister of Defense, and Dmitry Rogozin, the former head of Roscosmos, have been instrumental in advancing Russia’s unmanned military capabilities.
The Covert Operations and Geopolitical Maneuvering
Behind the public face of UAWCs lies a world of covert operations and geopolitical maneuvering. The deployment of UAVs from carriers is not just about enhancing military capabilities; it is also about gathering intelligence, conducting electronic warfare, and projecting power in subtle and deniable ways. The UAWC enables these operations by providing a centralized command structure that can coordinate and execute missions with precision.
In the South China Sea, for example, UAWCs aboard U.S. carriers are likely involved in surveillance operations aimed at monitoring Chinese military activities. These operations are critical for maintaining situational awareness in a region where tensions are high and the risk of conflict is ever-present. The UAWC allows the U.S. Navy to conduct these operations without exposing manned aircraft to the risks posed by Chinese air defenses.
Similarly, in the Arctic, where Russia is expanding its military presence, UAWCs aboard Russian carriers play a key role in monitoring NATO activities and asserting control over strategic waterways. The ability to deploy UAVs in these harsh and contested environments gives Russia a strategic advantage, allowing it to gather intelligence and conduct operations with minimal risk.
China’s use of UAWCs is likely focused on its territorial disputes in the East and South China Seas. The ability to deploy UAVs from carriers gives the PLA Navy a significant advantage in these contested areas, allowing it to conduct surveillance, gather intelligence, and, if necessary, carry out strikes with a high degree of precision. The UAWC’s role in these operations is critical, as it provides the command and control needed to execute complex missions in a dynamic environment.
Broader Implications for Global Politics
The rise of UAWCs and the increasing reliance on unmanned systems have broader implications for global politics. The ability to project power without risking human lives changes the calculus of military engagements. It lowers the threshold for the use of force, as the political costs of losing unmanned systems are significantly lower than those associated with losing manned aircraft or personnel.
This shift has the potential to destabilize regions where the balance of power is already fragile. In the Indo-Pacific, for example, the increasing use of UAVs by both the U.S. and China could lead to a new kind of arms race, where the focus is on developing and deploying more advanced and capable unmanned systems. The UAWCs are at the center of this competition, as they provide the infrastructure needed to operationalize these systems on a large scale.
In Europe, the use of UAWCs by NATO and Russia could lead to a similar dynamic, particularly in contested regions like the Baltic and Black Seas. The ability to deploy UAVs from carriers allows both sides to conduct operations with a high degree of deniability, increasing the risk of miscalculation and escalation. The UAWCs play a critical role in these operations, as they provide the command and control needed to coordinate complex missions in a rapidly changing environment.
The Unmanned Air Warfare Center (UAWC) inside carriers represents a significant shift in the way naval warfare is conducted. It is a symbol of the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern military strategy and a key asset in the geopolitical competition among major powers. The UAWC’s role in coordinating and executing missions involving UAVs is critical to the operational success of these systems, making it a focal point in the broader strategic competition among the United States, China, and Russia.
As the use of UAWCs and UAVs continues to expand, the implications for global politics are profound. The ability to project power without risking human lives changes the calculus of military engagements and has the potential to destabilize regions where the balance of power is already fragile. The UAWC is at the heart of this shift, providing the infrastructure needed to operationalize unmanned systems on a large scale and making it a critical asset in the ongoing competition for global influence.
APPENDIX 1- The Evolution and Strategic Importance of VUQ-10 and the MQ-25 Stingray in Modern Naval Warfare
In the evolving landscape of naval warfare, technological advancements have consistently shaped the operational capabilities of naval forces worldwide. The introduction of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) marks a significant leap in this domain, offering unprecedented opportunities for enhancing combat effectiveness, operational flexibility, and strategic reach. Among these advancements, the MQ-25 Stingray, an unmanned carrier-based aerial refueling aircraft, stands out as a revolutionary asset for the United States Navy. The establishment and mission of Unmanned Carrier-Launched Multi-Role Squadron Ten (VUQ-10) are pivotal in integrating this technology into the Navy’s operational framework. This article delves into the intricacies of VUQ-10’s mission, the history and development of the MQ-25 Stingray, and its implications for the future of naval aviation.
The Mission of VUQ-10
VUQ-10 was established with a clear and vital mission: to man, train, and equip fleet aviators to operate the Unmanned Carrier-Launched Air Vehicle (UCLAV), with a particular focus on the MQ-25 Stingray. The squadron’s primary goal is to ensure that Navy personnel are fully prepared to integrate this cutting-edge technology into the fleet, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities of Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) across the globe.
Located aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River in Maryland, VUQ-10 is strategically positioned to collaborate closely with other key units involved in the development and testing of the MQ-25. Over the coming years, VUQ-10 will work alongside squadrons such as VX-23, UX-24, and VX-1, all of which play crucial roles in testing, training, and developing the operational and maintenance procedures necessary for the successful deployment of the MQ-25 Stingray.
The mission of VUQ-10 extends beyond mere training; it encompasses the broader objective of integrating the MQ-25 into the Navy’s operational environment. This integration is essential for maximizing the aircraft’s potential, particularly in its primary role as an aerial refueling platform. By taking over the mission tanking responsibilities traditionally handled by manned aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the MQ-25 frees up these assets for other combat roles, thereby increasing the overall lethality and effectiveness of the Carrier Air Wing (CVW).
The Strategic Importance of the MQ-25 Stingray
The MQ-25 Stingray represents a significant milestone in the evolution of naval aviation. As the Navy’s first carrier-based unmanned aircraft, it is designed to fulfill multiple roles, with its primary mission being aerial refueling. This capability is critical in extending the strike range of the carrier air wing, enabling it to conduct operations at greater distances from the carrier. The MQ-25’s ability to offload fuel at ranges previously unattainable by manned platforms significantly enhances the operational flexibility of the CSG.
One of the key advantages of the MQ-25 is its ability to relieve the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet of its aerial refueling duties. Traditionally, the Super Hornet has been tasked with this role, limiting its availability for strike missions. By transferring this responsibility to the MQ-25, the Navy can now equip the Super Hornet with additional ordnance, thereby increasing its combat effectiveness. This shift not only enhances the strike capabilities of the CVW but also optimizes the utilization of manned aircraft in combat scenarios.
In addition to its primary role as a mission tanker, the MQ-25 is also capable of performing secondary missions such as recovery tanking and organic intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). These capabilities further expand the operational utility of the MQ-25, making it a versatile asset within the CSG. The incorporation of the MQ-25 into the Navy’s operational framework is a testament to the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare, where the ability to conduct complex operations remotely is increasingly seen as a strategic advantage.
Historical Context and Development of the MQ-25
The journey leading to the development of the MQ-25 Stingray can be traced back to the early 2000s, when the U.S. Navy first began exploring the concept of an unmanned carrier-based aircraft. The initial efforts were part of the Navy’s broader Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program, which aimed to develop an aircraft capable of performing both strike and ISR missions from an aircraft carrier. However, the program underwent several iterations and changes in scope, eventually leading to the focused development of an unmanned aerial refueling platform.
The MQ-25 program was officially launched in 2016, with the goal of delivering a carrier-based UAV capable of extending the range and endurance of the carrier air wing. The selection of Boeing’s design as the winner of the MQ-25 competition in 2018 marked a significant step forward in the program’s development. Boeing’s prototype, designated as T1, successfully completed its first test flight in September 2019, demonstrating the feasibility of the design and laying the groundwork for subsequent testing and development.
The establishment of VUQ-10 on October 1, 2022, at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, represents a critical milestone in the program’s progression. As the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the MQ-25 Stingray, VUQ-10 is tasked with the responsibility of preparing Navy personnel to operate and maintain this new aircraft. Under the command of Commander Emily Mooren, VUQ-10 is at the forefront of integrating the MQ-25 into the Navy’s operational environment, ensuring that it meets the rigorous demands of carrier-based operations.
The Role of NAS Patuxent River in MQ-25 Testing and Development
Naval Air Station Patuxent River plays a central role in the development and testing of the MQ-25 Stingray. Located in southern Maryland, NAS Patuxent River has long been a hub for naval aviation research, development, and testing. The station’s facilities and resources make it an ideal location for the rigorous testing required to validate the MQ-25’s performance and operational capabilities.
At NAS Patuxent River, VUQ-10 collaborates closely with other test and evaluation squadrons, including VX-23, UX-24, and VX-1. These squadrons bring a wealth of expertise and experience in testing advanced aviation systems, making them invaluable partners in the development of the MQ-25. The collaborative efforts at NAS Patuxent River are focused on ensuring that the MQ-25 meets the high standards required for carrier-based operations, including the ability to withstand the harsh conditions of carrier takeoffs and landings.
The testing and development process at NAS Patuxent River also involves the integration of advanced technologies and systems that are essential for the MQ-25’s operational success. These include the aircraft’s autonomous flight control systems, communication and data link systems, and aerial refueling hardware. Each of these components must be thoroughly tested and validated to ensure that the MQ-25 can perform its missions reliably and effectively in the demanding environment of carrier-based operations.
Future Prospects and Strategic Implications
As the MQ-25 Stingray moves closer to full operational capability, its impact on the future of naval aviation is becoming increasingly apparent. The integration of the MQ-25 into the Navy’s Carrier Strike Groups will not only enhance the operational capabilities of these groups but also pave the way for the broader adoption of unmanned systems in naval warfare.
The MQ-25’s ability to perform multiple roles, including aerial refueling, ISR, and recovery tanking, makes it a versatile asset that can significantly enhance the Navy’s operational flexibility. In addition to extending the strike range of the carrier air wing, the MQ-25’s ISR capabilities will provide valuable intelligence that can inform decision-making at all levels of command. This ability to gather and disseminate real-time intelligence will be particularly important in contested environments, where the need for accurate and timely information is critical.
Furthermore, the introduction of the MQ-25 represents a shift in the Navy’s approach to carrier-based aviation. By embracing unmanned systems, the Navy is positioning itself to address the challenges of future conflicts, where the ability to operate in denied or contested environments will be crucial. The MQ-25’s unmanned nature also reduces the risk to human pilots, allowing the Navy to conduct operations in areas that might be too dangerous for manned aircraft.
As the MQ-25 program continues to mature, its success will likely influence the development of future unmanned systems for the Navy. The lessons learned from the MQ-25’s development and operational integration will inform the design and deployment of subsequent UAVs, further expanding the role of unmanned systems in naval warfare.
The establishment of VUQ-10 and the development of the MQ-25 Stingray represent significant milestones in the evolution of naval aviation. As the Navy’s first carrier-based unmanned aircraft, the MQ-25 is poised to revolutionize the way the Navy conducts operations, particularly in the realm of aerial refueling and ISR. The mission of VUQ-10 is critical to ensuring that Navy personnel are fully prepared to operate and maintain this cutting-edge technology, thereby maximizing its potential and enhancing the operational capabilities of the Carrier Strike Groups.
Located at NAS Patuxent River, VUQ-10 plays a central role in the testing and development of the MQ-25, working closely with other key squadrons to ensure that the aircraft meets the high standards required for carrier-based operations. As the MQ-25 moves closer to full operational capability, its impact on the future of naval aviation is becoming increasingly clear. The integration of the MQ-25 into the Navy’s operational framework will not only enhance the capabilities of the Carrier Strike Groups but also pave the way for the broader adoption of unmanned systems in naval warfare.
In conclusion, the MQ-25 Stingray and VUQ-10 are at the forefront of a new era in naval aviation, where unmanned systems play an increasingly important role in enhancing the Navy’s operational effectiveness and strategic reach. As the Navy continues to embrace the potential of these technologies, the future of naval aviation promises to be more dynamic, flexible, and capable than ever before.