Boeing has tested for the first time the Orca XLUUV, an unmanned submarine that can destroy enemy ships and operate for months in open waters without human intervention

Boeing has tested a new unmanned submarine for the first time. It was named Orca XLUUV. The American company published a video recorded during the tests of the submarine.

Here's What We Know

Orca XLUUV is positioned as the first in its class underwater unmanned ship for the US Navy. At the same time, Boeing does not exclude the civilian use of the drone. For example, to explore the depths of the sea.

The submarine is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system. The Orca XLUUV will have a maximum speed of 15 km/h, a practical speed of about 7 km/h and a range of 10,500 kilometres, which will be enough for missions lasting several months.

The underwater drone is 26 metres long. The final version of the Orca XLUUV will weigh 50 tonnes and will be able to carry up to 8 tonnes of payload. The modular payload bay will be approximately 10 metres long.

Boeing says the Orca XLUUV will be able to operate in open waters for months without human intervention. If desired, the unmanned submarine can be equipped with MK48 and MK46 torpedoes. The drone will be used for reconnaissance, demining, electronic warfare and destroying enemy ships.

Source: @BoeingDefense