– The US military has been developing a large underwater drone called the “Manta Ray”.
– The Manta Ray is an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) built by defense contractor Northrop Grumman for DARPA.
– It recently completed its first major sea tests off the coast of Southern California in February/March 2024. This tested its propulsion, steering, and other systems while submerged.
– The Manta Ray looks like a giant metal manta ray, hence its name. It can function like a torpedo, mine or small submarine.
– As a UUV, it allows the US military to conduct underwater operations and missions without risking human lives.
– DARPA aims to develop long-range UUVs like the Manta Ray that can operate globally.
– The successful sea tests validate that the Manta Ray is ready for real-world operations after modular assembly in the field.
– The US Navy will conduct further testing and aims to integrate large UUVs like the Manta Ray into its unmanned underwater fleet.
Source: Business Insider
