US unveils means to neutralize Chinese missiles

The US has just announced for the first time the MQ-25 - a line of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on ships that help the US avoid attacks from Chinese missiles.

According to The Aviationist, on December 19, Boeing announced the prototype of the MQ-25A Stingray UAV. Although the real image was released, the MQ-25A is still a mystery because only the front of this UAV can be seen, while the body and tail have not been released by the manufacturer.

US launches MQ-25A Stingray.

The US Department of Defense has been pursuing a carrier-based UAV program since 2006, initially developing a long-range stealth bomber, then transforming it into a strike and reconnaissance aircraft and finally an aerial refueling aircraft designated the MQ-25A Stingray.

Initial information revealed that the MQ-25A Stingray ship-based refueling UAV provides the US Navy with an effective tool to solve one of their most pressing problems today: the anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategy of their opponents.

Currently, China and Russia are both developing platforms capable of denying US forces access to or penetration of important areas. However, the MQ-25A Stingray could help increase the range of US carrier-based fighters, allowing them to neutralize adversary A2/AD tactics.

According to the US Navy's explanation, some types of Chinese anti-ship ballistic missiles have a range of about 1,300 km, while the US's longest-range carrier-based fighter jets currently have a combat radius of less than 900 km.

This reality is forcing the US to operate carrier-based fighters beyond their effective range or risk putting an aircraft carrier with 6,000 troops and 70 aircraft within range of Chinese ballistic missiles.

Meanwhile, once put into operation on aircraft carriers, the MQ-25A Stingray will help extend the range of the US Navy's F/A-18, EA-18G Growler, and F-35C fighters, allowing them to operate effectively from a safe distance.

Vice Admiral Joseph Mulloy, deputy chief of staff for capabilities and resources development of the US Navy, stated:

"We can improve some features and increase the survivability of the MQ-25A Stingray after it is put into operation. In addition to its primary mission of refueling, the aircraft can also perform reconnaissance and surveillance missions as well as the ability to operate as a flying truck," said Mr. Joseph Mulloy.

According to baodatviet.vn