# Navy Awards Boeing Three MQ-25A Aircraft

On September 14, 2026, the U.S. Navy awarded Boeing a low-rate initial production (LRIP) Lot 1 contract for three MQ-25A Stingray aircraft, bringing the total number of aircraft under Navy contract to 14. The award moves the program from development and testing into production. Lot 2 long-lead procurement was awarded concurrently, while Lot 2 production is planned for award in 2027.

- The production transition creates near-term delivery work for Boeing and potential supporting suppliers; the signals do not state a contract value or identify specific subcontracting opportunities.
- Companies supporting naval aviation production can use the planned 2027 Lot 2 award as a concrete future procurement milestone when assessing capacity and business plans.
- The increase to 14 contracted aircraft signals continued Navy demand for the MQ-25A program, while the concurrent long-lead procurement indicates some Lot 2-related purchasing is already underway.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** September 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Navy (U.S. Navy)

### Vendors
- Boeing (awardee)

### Key Quotes
> This award validates our team’s hard work and positions us to deliver additional aircraft with critical capability to the Navy. We look forward to supporting the customer through the LRIP deliveries.
> — Derek Attwood, MQ-25A LRIP program manager

> Reaching this milestone shows how we’re redefining naval aviation and expanding what autonomy can do. We remain committed to providing stability and consistent execution of the production system to fulfill our commitments to the fleet.
> — Troy Rutherford, MQ-25 Program vice president

### Sources
- [Boeing secures order for 3 more MQ-25A Stingrays. This award for three aircraft brings the total under U.S. Navy contract to 14. https://t.co/Rw92ikLJmA](https://x.com/kadonkey/status/2105137679947927947) - twitter-defense