MQ-25 will fly off the deck: The US Navy will lift an unmanned tanker from an aircraft carrier for the first time in 2026

MQ-25: Not just a drone, but a revolution on deck

In 2026, the US Navy will take a step that has been dreamed of for decades: an unmanned MQ-25 Stingray tanker aircraft will take off from the deck of an aircraft carrier for the first time. This is not just a technical achievement, it is a paradigm shift. Now aerial refueling, previously entrusted to combat fighters, will pass into the hands of an autonomous vehicle. And it will change everything.

The MQ-25, created by Boeing, is designed specifically for the harsh conditions of deck operations. It will be able to carry up to 6.8 tons of fuel and refuel several aircraft in one flight.

Super Hornet is no longer a tanker

Currently, almost a third of F/A-18E/F Super Hornet sorties on an aircraft carrier are not combat missions, but refueling missions. The fighter itself, designed for combat, is forced to carry fuel so that other vehicles can reach the target. This is a huge loss of combat power.

With the advent of the MQ-25, these functions will be removed from the Super Hornet. Now it will be able to take off with combat weapons, and not with external tanks. Every fighter jet is a strike, not a fuel tanker.

How does this change the combat capabilities of an aircraft carrier

Imagine: an aircraft carrier wing can launch more fighters, they fly further, stay in the air longer and return to refuel more often. The MQ-25 will be waiting for them at a given point, like a flying gas station.

This means that the range of the aircraft carrier will grow without a single change in its design. And this is a strategic advantage, especially in areas with dense air defenses, where every kilometer counts.

The path to full autonomy in the air

The MQ-25 is not the end, but the beginning. This is the first drone to become part of the deck loop. It will show that autonomous systems can operate in the most difficult conditions — on a swinging deck, in cramped hangars, in rain and storms.

In the future, such drones may take over not only refueling, but also reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and even strike missions. The aircraft carrier will become a hub for autonomous systems, not just a base for manned aircraft.

Sources on the MQ-25 Stingray carrier-based tanker drone and its 2026 entry into service

1. UNIAN — the first serial MQ-25 is scheduled to fly in 2025, with carrier integration expected in 2026. It will be the world’s first operational carrier-based tanker UAV, able to refuel combat aircraft at long range.
2. Hi-Tech Mail.ru — factory tests of the latest MQ-25 Stingray are underway in the U.S.; the U.S. Navy plans to begin operating the drone from carriers in 2026 to extend the range and endurance of carrier aviation.
3. Central Asia News — the MQ-25 Stingray will boost U.S. naval aviation by providing aerial refueling, ISR (intelligence, surveillance & reconnaissance), and data collection. Full operational capability is expected in the 2030s.
4. RuPosters — the U.S. Navy intends to acquire 76 MQ-25 drones; the first serial aircraft should be delivered in 2026. The program has seen some delays, but development is on track.
5. ArmIya.az — U.S. Naval Air Forces commander Vice Admiral Daniel Cheever stated that the MQ-25 will fly in 2025 and begin carrier operations the following year.

New concept image reveals details of the U.S. Navy's secret F/A-XX fighter jet

The secrecy surrounding the sixth-generation F/A—XX fighter program for the US Navy has eased slightly after one of the key participants in the competition, Northrop Grumman, published a new conceptual image of its version of a carrier—based combat aircraft. The rendering, posted on the company's official website in the section dedicated to naval aviation, shows the front of the future fighter jet against the background of an aircraft carrier deck.

Although the image does not show the wings, tail unit or the full appearance of the aircraft, it provides important design clues: a pointed nose, characteristic fuselage lines, as well as elements indicating low radar visibility (stealth technology) are noticeable. The locations of sensors and antennas are also visible, which indicates a high degree of integration of sensors and communication systems.

Unlike the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program The US Air Force, focused on gaining air superiority, the F/A-XX is being developed taking into account the specifics of naval operations. Its main tasks are strikes against ground and surface targets, fleet support, and operations in remote theaters of war, especially in the Pacific region.

China's growing naval power and the geographical features of the Pacific Ocean require the new fighters to have increased flight range, greater autonomy and the ability to operate as part of a network-centric combat system, including interaction with unmanned loyal wingmen (CCA) and aircraft carrier groups.

Northrop Grumman, Boeing and Lockheed Martin are involved in developing concepts for the F/A-XX. The U.S. Navy has not yet disclosed the full requirements, but it is clear that the sixth—generation fighter will be the centerpiece of a future carrier air group - combining high stealth, advanced electronics, artificial intelligence, and likely partial or full autonomy.

An American aircraft carrier and an Italian frigate set sail: how the USA and Italy patrol the Mediterranean

In the Mediterranean, they showed strength again, this time in pairs. The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the most advanced ship of the US Navy, entered the area of responsibility of the Sixth Fleet, and immediately began working in tandem with the allies. His first partner in the exercise was the Italian frigate ITS Spartaco Schergat (F598), a modern FREMM—class ship known for its versatility and powerful electronics.

The company is not accidental: the United States and Italy have been working closely together in this region for a long time, and the Mediterranean Sea is a hotter place than it seems. There are migration crises, tensions with Russia, drone activity, and control of sea lanes. So joint operations are not just a flag display, but a real test of willingness to work together if necessary.

The American destroyers USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) and USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), ships with the Aegis fire control system capable of repelling missile and air attacks, also joined the Ford. Together with the Italian frigate, they practiced data exchange, patrolling, airspace control, and interaction tactics — all of which are important when a threat appears at sea.

The Spartaco Schergat frigate is not just a guest: It is one of the most modern ships of the Italian navy, capable of fighting submarines, missiles and airplanes. His participation shows that Italy is not just a NATO ally, but a full—fledged player in ensuring the security of the region.

Such exercises are like training before a fight: everyone learns to speak the same language, coordinate actions and trust each other. Because in a real conflict, seconds decide everything, and a good tandem is already half the success.

The unmanned "tanker" MQ-25 Stingray went over the ground — now into the sky!

 

MQ-25 Stingray

The US Navy and Boeing finally have reason to be optimistic: ground tests of the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned tanker aircraft have begun. This is an important step for drones to start refueling fighter jets right in the air — without a pilot, without risking their lives and with greater efficiency.

The MQ-25 is currently undergoing tests on the ground: control systems, engines, operation with fuel hoses and compatibility with the deck infrastructure of aircraft carriers are being tested. This is preparation for the main thing — the first flight of the production model, which, as hoped by Boeing and the U.S. Navy, will take place this year.

However, the path to this moment turned out to be long and thorny. The project has been repeatedly delayed due to technical difficulties, revised requirements, and bureaucracy. But now everything seems to be going according to plan.

Why do we need an unmanned tanker at all? It's very simple: fighters like the F/A-18 Super Hornet or F-35C consume a lot of fuel, especially when departing from an aircraft carrier. Now some of these tasks are performed by combat aircraft themselves in the role of "fuel barges" — but this deprives the fleet of firepower. The MQ-25 will free up fighters for combat missions, and it will "work as a taxi" — it will fly, refuel, and leave.

When the MQ-25 starts flying, it will change the logistics of carrier operations. The range of carrier—based aircraft will increase, and hence the strike force.

So, although the Stingray is still only rolling on concrete, it will rise into the air very soon. And it won't just be a flight — it will be the beginning of a new era on aircraft carriers.

Italy offers Indonesia to convert an aircraft carrier into a drone platform

 

ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi

The Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri came to Jakarta for a reason — it is seriously applying for a deal with Indonesia. At a two-day meeting on July 15-16, the Italians revealed in detail a plan: how to convert their old aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi to the needs of the Indonesian Navy. Only now it will not be a classic aircraft carrier, but almost like a "drone home" — a helicopter carrier with a focus on drones.

The proposal covers four key areas: deck upgrades, control system upgrades, helicopter adaptations, and, most interestingly, preparing the ship for UAV launch and reception. That is, in fact, they want to turn the old Italian "veteran aircraft carrier" into a modern floating base for drones and helicopters.

For Indonesia, this is an attractive option: not to build from scratch, but to take an already proven building and update it to suit your needs. This is especially true if a country wants to strengthen control over its islands and sea lanes at no huge cost.

So far, this is just a suggestion, but it looks serious. If it works, Indonesia may get its first helicopter drone ship, and Fincantieri may get a new major contract in Asia.

Chinese J-35 stealth fighter goes to sea: aircraft carrier tests coming soon

 J-35

China is actively preparing for combat duty its new fifth—generation fighter, the J-35, which is already undergoing limited mass production. This is not just another military aircraft — it is a full-fledged carrier-based stealth fighter designed to be based on aircraft carriers. And, apparently, there is very little left before full-fledged admission to the Chinese Navy.

What is the J-35?

It is an inconspicuous fighter with a streamlined body, modern electronic warfare systems and powerful weapons. It is compact in size — about 17.3 meters in length and 11.5 meters in wingspan. That is, he is maneuverable, fast and at the same time a serious fighter.

Its maximum speed is up to Mach 2 (about 2200 km / h), which is higher than that of the American F-35 (1.6 Mach). The combat range is about 1200-1300 km without outboard tanks, and with them — up to 2100 km.

Armament: What can it carry?

The J-35 can carry up to 8 tons of payload.:

- 6 suspension points inside — to keep it unobtrusive;

- 6 more are outside if more weapons are needed.

In his arsenal:

- PL-10 melee missiles,

- PL-12 medium-range missiles,

- anti-ship and anti-radar missiles.

That is, it is capable of destroying both air, land and sea targets.

How is the J-35 better than others?

- Two engines, rather than one, as in the F-35 — this gives better maneuverability and safety margin.

- More combat load, especially in the inner compartments.

- The speed is higher than that of the F-35.

- The wings are folded, which means it is convenient to place on the deck of an aircraft carrier.

- The ability to take off from a catapult is an important condition for naval aviation.

The J-35 is currently being prepared for testing on the Liaoning aircraft carrier. If everything goes well, it will be officially adopted and used in real combat missions.

This is a step forward for the Chinese navy: aircraft carriers will receive serious air support, and China will be able to assert itself more strongly in the Asia-Pacific region.

The J-35 is not just a copy of the F-35. It is a full-fledged competitor that can give China an advantage in maritime operations. It will be interesting to follow his tests on an aircraft carrier.

F-35Bs refueled and took off from HMS Prince of Wales for the first time before the Talisman Sabre exercises

In 2025, an important event took place within the framework of international military cooperation: F-35B stealth fighters of the United States Marine Corps successfully completed refueling and takeoff operations from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. This was part of his large—scale flagship campaign conducted as part of Operation High Mast, the key aircraft carrier deployment of the British Royal Navy this year.

These operations took place on the eve of one of the largest multinational exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, Talisman Sabre, which underlines the strategic importance of this event. The participation of the F-35B in joint operations with the British flagship demonstrates the high degree of interoperability of the allied forces and the strengthening of their presence in a critically important region.

The British Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, embarked on an eight-month mission that will take place from the Mediterranean Sea, through the Indian Ocean, and end off the Pacific coast. Such a deeply symbolic and tactically significant deployment is aimed at strengthening defensive ties, demonstrating strength and increasing combat readiness in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

The participation of American fifth-generation fighters in logistical and combat operations with the British aircraft carrier also serves as a prime example of transatlantic partnership and technological synchronization. The joint actions of the F-35B and HMS Prince of Wales have shown the effectiveness of integrating the advanced systems and capabilities of the two countries into a single combat structure.

China accelerates serial production of J-35 fighter jets: CCTV 13 showed footage from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation factory

J-35 in the background of the frame

On July 8, 2025, China's state television channel CCTV 13 broadcast a program dedicated to aviation, presenting footage from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation production facility, which captured several fifth-generation J-35 fighters in advanced assembly stages. These shots were an important confirmation that the J-35 has moved beyond the prototype stage and has begun mass production.

The video showed at least five or six J-35 airframes at various stages of configuration. Some of the aircraft had identifiers such as "040070", which indicates that they belong to the fourth production batch and indicate the transition of the project from an experimental to a full-fledged production stage. This aroused considerable interest from military experts and analysts, as there had previously been doubts about the pace of development and scale of production of this promising multi-role fighter.

The J-35 fighter jet, also known as FC-31 outside China, is positioned as a competitor to Lockheed Martin's F-35 and is designed for use on both ground bases and aircraft carriers. The program also demonstrated elements of its integration with new electronic warfare systems, AESA radars and new generation weapons.

These events are taking place against the backdrop of the active modernization course of the Chinese Air Force and Navy, including the development of the aircraft carrier fleet and the creation of new generation strike groups. It is assumed that the J-35 will be paired with the heavy fighter J-20 as part of the concept of network-centric warfare and air superiority.

Thus, the publication of such materials on the official state channel is a signal of both internal confidence in the project and an external demonstration effect in the context of increasing geopolitical tension in the Asia-Pacific region.

Turkey on the threshold of a new era: joint aircraft carrier project with Spain strengthens naval potential

On July 3, 2025, Turkey's naval ambitions took a decisive new turn. The Turkish Presidential Defense Industry Agency (SSB) has officially confirmed the launch of a joint project with Spain to develop a 300—meter-long aircraft carrier, a step that could significantly change the balance of power in the region and make Turkey one of the world's leading maritime powers.

This high-profile announcement was a logical continuation of the TCG Anadolu program, a multifunctional amphibious assault ship that was originally planned to be upgraded into an unmanned aircraft carrier. However, the new plans demonstrate a significant expansion of Ankara's strategic goals. The joint development with Spain indicates a desire for technological exchange and integration into European security structures, despite the difficult geopolitical realities of recent years.

The new aircraft carrier will become the flagship of the Turkish navy and will provide the country with the opportunity to project power far beyond its borders. Its size — 300 meters — allows us to talk about a full-fledged attack ship capable of carrying carrier-based aircraft, including fifth-generation fighters and new-generation drones. This makes it competitive both among its European counterparts and in comparison with the aircraft carriers of the United States and China.

Ankara is thus demonstrating its determination to strengthen its influence in the Mediterranean and Black Seas, regions where competition has intensified in recent years, especially after the events around Ukraine and the growing activity of NATO. The presence of a modern aircraft carrier will allow Turkey to play a more independent and assertive role in these waters, while strengthening its position as a key player in the region.

Cooperation with Spain in the framework of the Varyant aircraft carrier project (the name has not yet been specified) is an important element of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Spain, which has experience in operating aircraft carriers and building large ships, provides access to advanced technologies and know-how, which significantly speeds up the project implementation process.

In addition, this cooperation fits into a broad program of cooperation in the field of defense: previously, the parties had already worked on the creation of new UAVs and air defense systems, as well as participated in joint exercises. Such relations open up opportunities for Turkey to deepen its integration with the European Union in the field of defense, despite political differences in other areas.

The aircraft carrier project has become only part of a large-scale development plan for the Turkish navy. In early 2025, the Ministry of Defense announced the construction of 31 new warships, including frigates, submarines and corvettes, indicating a systematic approach to fleet modernization. Also in January 2025, the large-scale Mavi Vatan 2025 exercises were completed, designed to demonstrate the readiness of the Turkish fleet to operate on the high seas and promptly respond to external challenges.

It is also worth noting that the development of the country's maritime capabilities goes hand in hand with other ambitious projects.: The serial production of Altay tanks, the development of the SIPER-1 air defense system and the export of its own weapons, the volume of which increased by 67% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the previous year.

British F-35Bs will test the deck of the Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga during joint exercises

 

British F-35B carrier—based fighters may soon land and take off from one of Japan's de facto aircraft carriers, JS Kaga, as members of the British aircraft carrier strike group are scheduled to arrive in Japanese waters in August as part of the final phase of a multi-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that part of the joint activities will be the landing and take-off of F-35B fighters from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales onto the deck of the Japanese JS Kaga, as the fleets of the partner countries seek to increase interoperability and strengthen military cooperation.

Recall that JS Kaga has already been upgraded to operate F-35B aircraft, and in October 2024, an American F-35B successfully landed on its deck during sea trials. In turn, the British F-35B, based on HMS Prince of Wales, has a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capability, which makes them compatible with aircraft carriers of this type. 

The planned cooperation between the UK and Japan could be an important step in developing a bilateral military partnership and deepening the presence of allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Starting from 2029-2030, the full-fledged start of F-35B operations from Japanese aircraft carriers is also expected.

The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford is heading to the Eastern Mediterranean to strengthen the US position in the Middle East

The American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the most modern and expensive ship of the US Navy, is scheduled to be deployed in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, near Israel. This step is due to the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran and is aimed at strengthening the US military presence in the region, CNN reported, citing Pentagon officials.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is a 333—meter-long giant equipped with two nuclear reactors, capable of reaching speeds of up to 56 km/h and carrying up to 90 aircraft and helicopters, including fifth-generation F-35 fighters. Its strike group is accompanied by destroyers and cruisers, which provides powerful force projection and protection against air, sea and underwater threats.

The deployment of an aircraft carrier near Israel is a demonstration of the United States' determination to support its allies and respond promptly to possible crisis situations related to the escalation of tension around Iran. This is the third US aircraft carrier sent to the region, which indicates a significant increase in military capabilities in the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Why is the US Navy sending the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz to the Middle East amid the escalating Israeli-Iranian conflict

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, the oldest in the U.S. Navy and preparing for decommissioning in 2026, was unexpectedly redirected from routine operations in the South China Sea to the Middle East. This step is connected with the need to strengthen the American military presence in the region against the background of increasing tensions between Israel and Iran.

Main reasons and objectives

- Aircraft carrier rotation: The USS Nimitz will replace the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier strike group in the region, which has been in the area of responsibility for about seven months and is ready for rotation.

 Show of force and deterrence: The presence of two aircraft carriers simultaneously in the region - Nimitz and Carl Vinson — serves as a powerful deterrent signal to Iran and its allies, as well as guarantees support to Israel and US allies.

- Flexible mobile airbase: The aircraft carrier provides the ability to conduct long-term combat operations without dependence on ground airfields, which is critical in conditions of instability in the region.

- Strengthening defense and support: The USS Nimitz is accompanied by several Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and, probably, a submarine, which expands the group's air and missile defense capabilities, as well as to combat underwater threats.

The escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran, which began with Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and subsequent retaliatory missile attacks, has raised US concerns about a possible expansion of the conflict at the regional level. The deployment of the USS Nimitz and additional forces is seen as a preventive measure to stabilize the situation and protect the interests of the United States and its allies.

The dispatch of the USS Nimitz to the Middle East is part of a large—scale build-up of the US military presence in the region aimed at containing the escalation of the conflict, supporting Israel and ensuring the security of strategically important shipping lanes and allies. Despite the fact that the aircraft carrier is preparing for decommissioning, its capabilities and experience make it an important element of American naval power at a critical moment.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian may be commissioned by the end of the year

 Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian 

Chinese state media reported that the third Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian could be officially commissioned by the end of 2025. A military analyst who spoke on the national television channel CCTV noted that the recent sea trials were "very successful," which brings the ship closer to being commissioned into the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy.

Features of the aircraft carrier Fujian

- Technological breakthrough: Fujian became the first Chinese aircraft carrier with an electromagnetic catapult, which allows launching heavier and more modern aircraft.

- Large-scale tests: Since launching in 2022, the aircraft carrier has undergone several stages of sea trials, including testing of control systems, navigation and aviation equipment.

- A symbol of military power: The commissioning of Fujian will strengthen China's position in the Asia-Pacific region and allow Beijing to more effectively project power over long distances.

According to experts, the appearance of the Fujian will significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Chinese navy, especially against the background of growing competition with the United States and its allies in the region. The new aircraft carrier is capable of carrying modern fighters, unmanned aerial vehicles and providing comprehensive support for amphibious and strike operations.

It is expected that by the end of 2025, the Fujian will be fully integrated into the fleet and begin regular exercises with other ships of the Chinese Navy. This event will mark an important milestone in the development of the Chinese navy and demonstrate the country's technological independence in the construction of large warships.

Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning spotted off the coast of Taiwan and the Philippines

Satellite image

Satellite images show the passage of the Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of the Philippines and Taiwan, key allies and partners of the United States in the region. Taiwan's Ministry of Defense has confirmed to local media that the aircraft carrier is located off the southeast coast of the island.

This relocation of the Chinese aircraft carrier is causing concern in the region, given the tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as the strategic importance of the Philippines as a partner of the United States. CNS Liaoning is China's first aircraft carrier to actively participate in demonstrating naval power and conducting exercises near disputed territories.

The presence of an aircraft carrier in the area indicates China's continued activity in expanding its influence in the South China and East China Seas. It also serves as a signal to the US allies about the need to maintain a high level of readiness and cooperation in the field of security.

In response to China's actions, Taiwan and the Philippines are strengthening their measures to monitor and secure their maritime borders, while the United States continues to support its regional partners as part of a deterrence strategy.

US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz returns to disputed South China Sea

 

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the oldest operating aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy, was spotted returning to the South China Sea, a region where China claims most of the maritime territories. This return comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensifying territorial disputes between China and its neighbors.

The USS Nimitz is located in the area of responsibility of the US Seventh Fleet, based in Japan, which maintains the presence of American naval forces in the western Pacific Ocean. The aircraft carrier provides a demonstration of strength and readiness for combat, which serves as a deterrent in a region where China is actively consolidating its territorial claims.

In early May, Nimitz conducted two weeks of operations in the South China Sea, after which it passed through the important Malacca Strait linking the South China Sea with the Indian Ocean. During this time, the aircraft carrier visited the ports of Malaysia and Guam, demonstrating international cooperation and the US presence in the region.

The return of the USS Nimitz coincides with increased activity by Chinese naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Shandong, which is also conducting exercises in the area. China considers the South China Sea as its exclusive economic zone and regularly conducts operations to protect its interests, which leads to frequent clashes with the naval forces of neighboring countries and the United States.

The presence of the Nimitz aircraft carrier in the region is an important element of the US strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and maintain international order in the Indo-Pacific region. It is also a signal to Beijing of Washington's readiness to defend the interests of its allies and deter aggressive actions.

Thus, the return of the USS Nimitz to the South China Sea highlights the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China for influence in the strategically important region and maintains tensions in international relations.

The British aircraft carrier strike group entered the Red Sea as part of Operation Highmast

Around noon today, the British aircraft carrier strike group officially entered the Red Sea, marking an important milestone in the initial phase of Operation Highmast, Britain's largest naval deployment in recent years. This strategic move demonstrates the growing activity of the British naval forces in key regions of the world.

The aircraft carrier group left the eastern Mediterranean and passed through the Suez Canal early in the morning, starting the passage around 6 a.m. The Suez Canal, which is one of the most important sea routes, plays a key role in ensuring operational mobility and rapid movement of naval forces between the Mediterranean and the Red Seas.

Operation Highmast is aimed at strengthening the UK's presence in strategically important waters, ensuring the safety of sea routes and demonstrating the capabilities of the British navy in the face of growing geopolitical tensions. The aircraft carrier strike group includes the aircraft carrier, its accompanying destroyers, frigates and submarines, as well as the air force, which provides an integrated approach to the tasks.

Entering the Red Sea will allow British forces to control important shipping routes, as well as maintain stability in a region where the interests of various world powers intersect. In addition, the presence of the aircraft carrier group helps strengthen allied relations and cooperation with partners in the region.

Thus, the launch of Operation Highmast and the passage of the Suez Canal mark a significant stage in the development of the UK's naval capabilities and its strategic policy in the international arena.

South Korea is curtailing the CVX aircraft carrier project and betting on unmanned technologies: a strategic turn in naval policy

 

The South Korean government has officially announced the cancellation of the CVX light aircraft carrier construction project, which was originally planned to be used to base F-35B vertical takeoff and landing fighters. Instead, the country intends to develop a multi-purpose command ship focused on the integration and control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

This decision was the result of a review of priorities in the modernization of the Navy of the Republic of Korea. Threat analysis, increased efficiency and availability of UAVs, as well as the high cost of building and operating traditional aircraft carriers forced Seoul to abandon the original plan in favor of a more flexible and economically viable approach.

The new type of ship will play the role of a floating control center capable of coordinating the actions of various types of drones, from reconnaissance drones to attack systems. This transition makes it possible to significantly expand the capabilities of the fleet while reducing the cost of maintaining manned aircraft.

In addition, this decision reflects the global trend towards digitalization and autonomy of military technologies, where the key factor is not the number of manned aircraft, but the quality of information interaction and the ability to quickly adapt to a changing tactical environment.

The abandonment of CVX does not mean a weakening of South Korea's naval power — on the contrary, it indicates its readiness for the war of the future, where robotic systems become the basis of combat potential.

The United States is strengthening its counteraction to drones: aircraft carriers are receiving a new generation of secret weapons

 

Coyote interceptor from Raytheon

With the threat from unmanned aerial vehicles on the rise, especially in the form of attacking drone swarms, the U.S. Navy is implementing a new air defense system to protect its carrier strike groups. New secret Coyote interceptors from Raytheon and Roadrunner-M from Anduril, designed to combat small and medium-sized UAVs, are being adopted.

These interceptor missiles are equipped with turbojet engines, which allows them not only to maneuver quickly, but also to hover in the air, waiting for targets in the carrier group's area of responsibility. This ability makes them effective in conditions of intense saturation of the airspace with a variety of targets.

A special feature of the new systems is **the possibility of reuse**: after completing a combat mission, some of the interceptors can return to the ship, ** land, refuel and be launched again**, which significantly increases the economic and tactical effectiveness of their use.

According to sources, both types of interceptors have already been tested in real combat conditions, participating in operations with the US Army and the Special Operations Command. The use of these technologies could become an important element of the Pentagon's strategy in dealing with drones in future conflicts.

The second US Navy aircraft was lost at sea from the aircraft carrier Truman

  Another F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter from the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman was lost in the Red Sea. This is the second loss of an aircraft from an aircraft carrier in a week, five sources familiar with the situation told CNN.

It's not entirely clear what happened as the investigation continues, but two of the people said there was some kind of arrest error when the plane was trying to land on the aircraft carrier, and the pilot and weapons systems officer had to eject. They were picked up by a rescue helicopter, and they are both alive, but suffered minor injuries, one of the people said.

According to two people familiar with the incident, the plane crashed into the sea and has not yet been found.

F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter

The F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet was lost overboard of the USS Harry S. Truman after the incident in the Red Sea

 

The US Navy reported the loss of an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet, which fell overboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman during a towing operation. The incident occurred in the Red Sea, where the aircraft carrier is carrying out tasks as part of a large-scale military operation against the Houthi rebel group.  

According to a statement from representatives of the US Navy, initial data indicate that the aircraft carrier's abrupt maneuver to evade the Houthi attack was one of the reasons for the fighter's downfall. On Monday, the Houthis announced an attack using drones and missiles directed against the USS Harry S. Truman. Although the aircraft carrier was not seriously damaged, the incident resulted in the loss of an expensive fighter jet.

Fortunately, all the personnel were found, and the consequences of the incident were minimal — one sailor was slightly injured. However, the loss of the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter represents significant material damage to the U.S. Navy. This case also highlights the risks faced by American warships in the region due to Houthi activity.

The Houthi rebel group based in Yemen continues to intensify its attacks on ships and warships in the Red Sea. Using modern drones and missile systems, they seek to put pressure on the international community and the United States in particular. Operations against the Houthis remain a priority for the US military, but such incidents demonstrate the complexity of operations in an environment of increased threat.