Manta-Ray - US underwater drone with its own berth

A satellite photo taken in November 2023, which later appeared on Google Maps, shows a new type of US Navy underwater vehicle, which is intended as a demonstrator to prove the functionality of new technologies - in particular underwater energy autonomy.

Manta Ray, photo: Google Earth

The "Manta Ray" underwater drone has impressive dimensions: With a wingspan of 14 metres and a length of 10 metres, the platform is clearly visible in the harbour of Port Hueneme near Los Angeles. Two videos have now been published by Northop Grumman and DARPA (the Pentagon's research and development agency) explaining how this autonomous UUV (unmanned underwater vehicle) works. Anchored to the seabed, it can use the current to recharge its batteries over long periods of time and is ready for use at any time. From a tactical point of view, it therefore achieves an extremely long deployment time and almost unlimited range with high payloads. The "plastic ray" opens up completely new operational possibilities for the US Navy. Watch Manta Ray videos:

Making Waves in Autonomy

Breaking the UUV mould