Satellite imagery has detected a secret unmanned submarine, known as the "Manta Ray," docked at the Port Hueneme naval base in California. This advanced unmanned underwater vehicle, developed by Northrop Grumman, is part of an advanced maritime project aimed at creating a new class of unmanned underwater vehicles capable of executing long-term missions without human intervention, according to Newsweek.
The name "Manta Ray" is derived from manta rays. It is designed to support a wide range of maritime missions. Northrop Grumman, an aerospace and defense conglomerate, states that the "Manta Ray" operates independently, eliminating the need for any on-site human logistics. It is also equipped with energy-saving capabilities that allow it to anchor on the seabed and "hibernate" in case of low energy.
Moreover, the design of the "Manta Ray" facilitates easy transportation, enabling rapid exploratory deployment and field assembly anywhere in the world. Earlier this year, the Navy reported successful exercises with the submarine off the coast of Southern California, which aligns with what has appeared on Google Maps. The exercises demonstrated the vehicle's performance, including underwater operations using all propulsion and maneuvering modes.
Additionally, reports indicate that the U.S. Navy has spent more than three months testing the submarine. It is noteworthy that last year, the Russian Navy announced plans to acquire 30 Poseidon unmanned submarines, which are small torpedo-shaped robots that Moscow claims can reach speeds of 100 knots. Through the "Manta Ray," the U.S. Navy aims to develop a hybrid fleet, equipping sailors and Marines with smart machines and sensors.
