Northrop Grumman has completed testing of the Manta Ray underwater drone

In the United States, tests of the prototype underwater unmanned vehicle Manta Ray, which is being developed by Northrop Grumman, have been completed.

Here's What We Know

The tests took place off the coast of Southern California in February and March 2024. The tests demonstrated the hydrodynamic characteristics of the apparatus in the sea. In addition, engineers successfully tested all ways to put Manta Ray in motion.

"Our successful, full-scale Manta Ray testing validates the vehicle’s readiness to advance toward real-world operations after being rapidly assembled in the field from modular subsections, said Dr. Kyle Woerner, DARPA program manager for Manta Ray."

The Manta Ray prototype was transported from Maryland to the test site in California in a disassembled state. The vehicle has a modular design, so it can be easily deployed anywhere in the world. The underwater drone is capable of performing a variety of naval missions. It is equipped with multiple payload compartments of different sizes and types.

The Manta Ray programme

The Manta Ray is being developed as part of a DARPA initiative to develop critical technologies for future underwater unmanned vehicles (UUVs). According to Northrop Grumman, the Manta Ray will have advanced command, control and communications capabilities. This will enable long-duration operations with minimal human oversight.

Northrop Grumman was awarded a Phase 2 contract in 2021 to continue the Manta Ray programme, which began in 2020. The Phase 2 project involves the development of full-scale demonstration vehicles by two prime contractors, Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation and Martin Defence Group. Each contractor has been tasked with building unique vehicles to demonstrate specific capabilities within the Manta Ray programme.

Source: DARPA