MQ-25 testing schedule at risk if Navy misses carrier installs

摘要

Officials for the Navy's MQ-25 unmanned aerial tanker program told government auditors they are at risk of having to extend developmental testing by up to three years, echoing previous warnings the service has made since recent funding cuts. "Specifically, the Navy faces limited flexibility to install MQ-25 control centers on aircraft carriers," according to a new Government Accountability Office report published yesterday. The new report is an annual assessment GAO produces about the Pentagon's major acquisition programs. "If the Navy misses any of its planned installation windows, the program would have to extend MQ-25 development testing by up to three years. According to officials, such a delay could necessitate a delay to initial capability and result in a cost increase," the GAO report continues.