The U.S. Navy says the MQ-25A Stingray has been cleared for deployment, according to statements attributed to Cao across multiple outlets. The MQ-25A’s mission is to provide unmanned aerial refueling for the Navy’s carrier air wing. By extending the range and endurance of carrier-based aircraft, the unmanned tanker is intended to reduce reliance on crewed fighters for tanking duties. This change is expected to free up F/A-18E/F Super Hornets to focus on strike missions rather than spending sorties on aerial refueling support. While the coverage agrees on the cleared-for-deployment status and the planned operational purpose, it does not include additional details such as the timing of first deployments or specific carrier assignments in the provided excerpts. Overall, the reporting frames the MQ-25A as a capability intended to enhance carrier air wing effectiveness by reallocating roles within the strike and support mission sets.