Adaptive Immersion announced the debut of its MQ-25 Automated Aerial Refueling Simulation Training Platform, offering carrier air wings and training commands a realistic way to practice unmanned refueling missions that directly affect recovery timelines and pilot safety. This platform will be available for demonstrations throughout I/ITSEC at booth 161 in Orlando, December 1-4.

The platform allows operators to build and execute complete mission plans for the MQ-25, including fuel ladder management, receiver sequencing and real-time contingency decisions when conditions evolve. Trainees monitor tanker behavior through displays and intervene when needed so all aircraft can return safely to the carrier.

“Unmanned systems are reshaping the carrier environment, but learning to manage them requires realistic and repeatable practice,” said Phillip Mangos, CEO and chief scientist of Adaptive Immersion Technologies. “This platform helps operators develop the timing, decision-making and situational awareness needed when weather shifts, fuel states tighten or the automation behaves differently than expected. It builds confidence in the moments that matter.”

The training environment reflects the real-world pressures of carrier operations and allows users to rehearse the complete MQ-25 mission thread, including the scenarios that create strain on the system. It prepares operators for both routine and high-stress tanker events.

Key capabilities include:

• Developing multi cycle air plans and assigning tanker orbits
  • Monitoring tanker behavior during rendezvous and refueling events
  • Managing shifting conditions such as weather, fuel consumption or failed launches
  • Responding to autonomy issues such as lost links or unexpected orbit behavior
  • Coordinating safe recovery for all receiver aircraft

These scenarios allow teams to practice coordination, timing and prioritization long before they face the operational pressures of the carrier deck. Training commands benefit from a system that produces consistent performance data and supports both new and experienced operators.

“Carrier aviation relies on precision, and the addition of autonomous tankers raises the stakes for planning and responsive decision-making,” Mangos said. “This system gives operators a way to practice those responsibilities without risk, cost or schedule pressure.”

The MQ-25 Automated Aerial Refueling Simulation Training Platform is available now for commercial deployment. Adaptive Immersion is supporting customization for flight-deck coordination, manned and unmanned refueling integration and other carrier-based mission requirements. One-on-one demonstrations will be available at Booth 161 during IITSEC.