An unmanned aerial refueler/tanker tanker drone successfully refueled a US Navy carrier-based fighter jet for the first time, according to the Navy.

The Boeing MQ-25 "Stingray" topped off an F/A-18 Super Hornet over Illinois, proving itself as a future asset that will allow carrier-based attack aircraft to carry out strike missions over further distances, thus allowing aircraft carriers to stay further from enemy threats. The Stingray is expected to be the world's first operational carrier-based aircraft of its kind. In addition to its duties as a tanker, the drone will also carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles as well.