The U.S. Navy is pivoting its technology acquisition strategy to co-invest alongside private venture capital firms. CTO Justin Fanelli aims to accelerate the adoption of commercial innovation through these partnerships. This shift signals industry focus toward priority sectors including AI, autonomy, and quantum technologies.
The Navy awarded Boeing a $562 million contract for the MQ-25A Stingray program. This agreement funds the initial production of three autonomous aerial refuelers. The contract transitions the carrier-based drone from the development phase into active production. The MQ-25A will replace crewed F/A-18 aircraft in refueling roles to extend carrier air wing combat ranges.