📷 Image Credits: NDTV
The recent spotting of the top-secret US submarine prototype weapon ‘Manta Ray’ by Google Maps users at the Port Hueneme naval base in California has sparked interest and intrigue. Named after the sea creature for its sleek design, the Manta Ray is an autonomous vessel designed by Northrop Grumman as part of a US Navy project to develop long-range underwater weapons. The submarine’s unique feature allows it to anchor itself deep underwater and operate in low-power mode for extended periods without the need for refueling.
The Manta Ray was caught on Google Maps, which led to images going viral online. The vessel’s design, resembling a spaceship from Star Wars, has garnered attention for its sophistication and strategic capabilities. Dr Kyle Woerner, program manager of the Manta Ray project at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, highlighted the drone’s efficient gliding mechanism through buoyancy-driven movements in the water.
Furthermore, the Manta Ray’s successful testing phase solidifies its readiness for real-world operations, according to Dr Woerner. The submarine’s modular design enables easy disassembly and transport in standard shipping containers, eliminating the need for specialized port facilities. The US Navy conducted rigorous testing off the coast of Southern California, showcasing the vessel’s performance and operational capabilities.
With defense analysts speculating that the US Navy’s drone development is aimed at countering submarine activities by Russia and China, the strategic implications of the Manta Ray project become even more pronounced. As Russia pursues its own underwater drone initiatives, the US Navy’s focus on advanced underwater drone technology underscores the evolving dynamics of modern naval operations.
In conclusion, the Manta Ray represents a significant advancement in underwater drone technology, with its hibernation capabilities and modular design setting it apart as a versatile asset for naval missions. The unveiling of this cutting-edge submarine prototype opens new possibilities for the US Navy’s strategic capabilities in countering emerging threats in the maritime domain.
