Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions has received a contract to supply data technology systems to Boeing’s MQ-25 unmanned aerial refuelling programme for the US Navy.

Designed by Boeing, the MQ-25 is the US Navy’s first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft that is capable of providing a ‘much-needed’ refuelling capability. Boeing won an $805m contract to build the MQ-25 in August last year.

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The latest contract will support Boeing’s engineering and manufacturing development programme with the US Navy to build and deliver four MQ-25 aircraft for initial operational capability by 2024.

Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions division senior vice-president and general manager Lynn Bamford said: “We are very proud that our data system solution was selected by Boeing for use on the aircraft carrier-deployed MQ-25 unmanned tanker aircraft.”

The unmanned aircraft will help extend the combat range of Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, and Lockheed Martin-built F-35C fighter jets.

“The work we’re doing is also foundational for the future of Boeing where we’re building autonomous systems from seabed to space.”

Curtiss-Wright has been supplying equipment and systems to Boeing for more than 60 years.

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The current contract will add six engineers and technicians at Curtiss-Wright.

Boeing MQ-25 programme director Dave Bujold said: “The MQ-25 programme is vital because it will help the US Navy extend the range of the carrier air wing, and Boeing and our industry team is all-in on delivering this capability.

“The work we’re doing is also foundational for the future of Boeing where we’re building autonomous systems from seabed to space.”

This is the third contract for the MQ-25 programme this month.

Boeing awarded a contract to Cubic Mission Solutions (CMS) to supply communication solutions. Triumph Group also won a contract to supply critical hydraulic system components.

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