Boeing hints at MQ-28 Ghost Bat with aerial refueling capability (Photo: X)
A video recently published by Boeing hints at the arrival of MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones with apparent receptacles on top of their fuselages to allow aerial refueling by tanker aircraft.
The clip was published last week by Boeing to promote the new F-15EX Eagle II fighter’s ability to act as a controller for airborne drones.
According to TWZ, Boeing is allegedly actively offering the MQ-28 to Poland in conjunction with a potential purchase of F-15EX jets.
However, as seen in the video from Boeing, the MQ-28 drones are shown with panel lines and markings on the top of the fuselage that are consistent with receptacles for receiving in-flight fuel via the probe-and-drogue method.
Additionally, the video shows the MQ-28s each carrying a pair of advanced medium-range air-to-air AIM-120 missiles (AMRAAM) internally and equipped with several sensors, including an infrared search and track (IRST) system.
It is important to note that the actual MQ-28s do have similar panels on the top of the fuselage, but this appears to be the first time they are seen with any markings indicating their connection to aerial refueling capability.
It is unclear if Boeing has officially mentioned the possibility of an aerial refueling capability for the Ghost Bat, but when asked about this by TWZ, a company spokesperson replied: “All I can share is that the video is conceptual in nature.”
Take a peek into the future.
With the F-15EX’s future manned-unmanned teaming capabilities supported by an advanced cockpit system, communication networks and two-seat configuration, the superior fighter could serve as a battle manager and joint all domain command and control. pic.twitter.com/07oRhGdIjV
— Boeing Defense (@BoeingDefense) September 4, 2025
Photo and video: X @BoeingDefense. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
