This underwater drone was inspired by the manta ray

This underwater drone was inspired by the manta ray

Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray project is a large-scale, autonomous, unmanned underwater drone inspired by the manta ray. The aim is that it will one day be able to carry out long-range missions across long periods of time in the depths of the ocean, without requiring logistics support from humans.

Northrop Grumman announced that it has completed assembly of its first prototype underwater drone inspired by manta rays, in collaboration with the US Department of Defense’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

What was previously just a concept is now beginning to take concrete shape. This highly ambitious project, designed to develop an entirely new class of unmanned underwater vehicle, takes the form of a large drone tasked with carrying out missions in remote areas. The idea is to be able to go where humans cannot.

Details about the manta ray drone by Northrop Grumman

The craft takes its name and shape from the manta ray, the largest and most spectacular type of ray, with a wingspan of up to 9 metres. This first prototype is, in theory, capable of carrying a payload and navigating autonomously, without human assistance. It is also designed to be modular and energy-efficient so that it can be fit into a variety of containers before being assembled and put to use anywhere in the world. Its energy efficiency comes from its ability to anchor itself to the seabed and “hibernate” for as long as required.

An artist’s impression of the new manta ray drone by Northrop Grumman. (Image: Northrop Grumman)

This military apparatus could be used for surveillance and intelligence missions, from mapping the seabed to detecting the presence of enemy craft. But this underwater drone could also, and above all, be used for highly targeted military operations, from delivering munitions to destroying enemy weaponry.

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This story was published via AFP Relaxnews

(All images: Northrop Grumman)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Do underwater drones exist?

Yes, underwater drones do exist and Northrop Grumman’s manta ray drone is the latest addition to this niche sector.

– What exactly does Northrop Grumman do?

Northrop Grumman is a US aerospace and defence technology company.