Mystery Submarine Prototype Leaked Online
The US Navy’s top-secret undersea drone, known as “Manta Ray,” was recently spotted by Google Maps users, with images quickly going viral before being removed.
Accidental revelation
The “Manta Ray,” a highly classified underwater drone, was inadvertently exposed on Google Maps. According to The New York Post, the drone was seen docked at the Port Hueneme naval base in California. Following the leak, the image was promptly replaced with pictures of boats.
Drone design and capabilities
Named after the Manta Ray, a cartilaginous fish known for its distinctive, broad body, the vessel mirrors this design with a sleek, diamond-shaped form. The drone, developed by Northrop Grumman as part of a US Navy project, boasts advanced features allowing it to anchor deep underwater and operate in low-power mode for extended periods.
Technical insights
Dr. Kyle Woerner of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) commented on the drone’s capabilities: “It [Manta Ray] uses efficient, buoyancy-driven gliding to move through the water … our successful, full-scale Manta Ray testing validates the vehicle’s readiness to advance toward real-world operations.” The drone’s modular design facilitates easy disassembly and transport in standard shipping containers, eliminating the need for dedicated port facilities.
Extensive testing
The Manta Ray underwent over three months of testing off the coast of Southern California, as reported by The Telegraph. The drone can hibernate on the sea floor for long durations without requiring refueling, making it a strategic asset for the US Navy.
Strategic implications
Defense analysts suggest that the development of the Manta Ray is part of the US’s broader strategy to counter Russian and Chinese submarine advancements. Russia is reportedly developing underwater drones with extensive ranges, nuclear capabilities, and high speeds, aiming to bolster its naval operations.
The unexpected revelation of the Manta Ray underscores the challenges of maintaining secrecy in the digital age while highlighting the advanced technological strides in modern naval warfare.