A classified autonomous underwater drone, developed by the US Navy for extended missions, was unexpectedly revealed on Google Maps over the weekend. The prototype, codenamed "Manta Ray" for its resemblance to the marine creature, was spotted at the Port Hueneme naval base.
The Manta Ray, an unmanned undersea vessel (UUV), is designed to operate submerged for prolonged periods in low-power mode. Developed by Northrop Grumman, this cutting-edge drone is part of the Navy's strategic initiative to expand long-range underwater capabilities.
Dr. Kyle Woerner, the Manta Ray program manager at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), stated that the drone utilizes "efficient, buoyancy-driven gliding" for navigation. Rigorous testing off the Southern California coast has confirmed its readiness for real-world deployment.
The Manta Ray's modular design, resembling a vessel from science fiction Star Wars, allows for disassembly and transportation in standard shipping containers. This eliminates the need for specialized port facilities, enhancing its adaptability and deployment potential.
DARPA emphasizes that successful implementation of this new UUV class would significantly bolster combatant commanders' capabilities without disrupting ongoing operations. The drone operates autonomously from manned vessels and ports once deployed.
Defense analysts speculate that the US Navy's focus on drone technology is a strategic response to the submarine operations of Russia and China, whose underwater drones reportedly possess considerable range, potential nuclear warhead capabilities, and high speeds.
Dr. Woerner underscored that the Manta Ray's combination of cross-country modular transportation, in-field assembly, and subsequent deployment represents a pioneering capability for extra-large UUVs.
The incident highlights the growing importance of drone technology in military operations and the ongoing efforts to develop autonomous systems capable of performing complex tasks in challenging environments.
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