A top-secret autonomous submarine designed by the US Navy for long-term underwater missions was recently discovered by Google Maps users exploring the coast near the San Diego Naval Base. The submarine, named the ‘Manta Ray,’ was developed by Northrop Grumman as part of a US Navy initiative to create long-range underwater weapons. The Manta Ray is a highly advanced underwater drone that can hibernate at the bottom of the sea for extended periods without needing to refuel. It uses efficient buoyancy-powered gliding technology to move through the water.
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) successfully completed testing of the Manta Ray, validating the vehicle’s readiness for real-world operations. The Navy spent over three months rigorously testing the ship off the coast of Southern California, demonstrating its hydrodynamic performance at sea, including submerged operations using various propulsion and steering modes. One of the standout features of the Manta Ray is its modular design, with several payload bays of different sizes to accommodate a variety of naval mission sets. This design also allows the vessel to be disassembled and transported in standard shipping containers, eliminating the need for specialized port facilities.
The US Navy’s focus on developing drone technology is seen as a response to Russian and Chinese efforts in undersea operations. Russian underwater drones reportedly have a range of 6,200 miles, can be armed with nuclear warheads, and reach speeds of up to 100 knots. The Manta Ray’s unique capabilities, including cross-country modular transportation, field assembly, and independent deployment, provide a significant advantage in undersea operations.
Overall, the discovery of the Manta Ray submarine highlights the US Navy’s commitment to advancing autonomous underwater technology for long-range missions. With its sleek design and innovative capabilities, the Manta Ray represents a significant advancement in underwater warfare capabilities.
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