Manta Ray Unmanned Sub Completes First Successful Test

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency took inspiration from a sea creature for the design of its latest creation: a submarine shaped like a manta ray.

What resembles a futuristic ocean animal is actually an uncrewed underwater vehicle (UUV) that was developed and built over the course of two years by aviation firm, Northrop Grumman. The US Navy took its latest toy for a spin at a test location near California in February and March this year, and the results showed promise.

Dr Kyle Woerner, head of the Manta Ray project, said: “Our successful, full-scale Manta Ray testing validates the vehicle’s readiness to advance toward real-world operations after being rapidly assembled in the field from modular subsections.”

The UUV is primarily designed to carry large payloads for long-distance missions with no human at the helm. When not in active use, it can anchor itself to the sea bottom and “hibernate.” Other specific details and technical aspects of the craft are not available to the public, but released images show that it is immensely large.

Northrop Grumman delivered on its $41.2-million promise, and now the US Navy is collaborating for further testing and deployment of the technology.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, views the Manta Ray and similar machinery as a new way to have more assets “on the field.”

Image Credit: Source