U.S 

Boeing's new software lets F-A-18 Super Hornet fighter pilots directly control MQ-25 Stingray drones for refueling, reducing communication time and offering more control during missions. 

Boeing just made refueling a lot easier for fighter pilots! They successfully simulated a scenario where an F-A-18 Super Hornet pilot controlled an MQ-25 Stingray drone (think unmanned gas station with wings) directly from the cockpit, ditching the need for an extra pilot on the aircraft carrier. 

This new software streamlines communication between the fighter jet and drone, saving precious time during refueling. Plus, it gives fighter pilots more control over the process, especially when refueling over longer distances. This technology is still under development, but it has the potential to be used on future versions of the F-A-18 Super Hornet.

Think of it like this: refueling two planes in mid-air is a delicate dance. Traditionally, a third person on the ground would call the shots. Now, the pilot in the fighter jet can be the conductor of this aerial ballet, making everything more efficient and potentially safer.