In an unexpected twist, the secretive US underwater drone, “Manta Ray”, was inadvertently exposed via Google Maps. This revelation has created waves within defense and intelligence sectors. The drone is an autonomous underwater vehicle (UAV) developed jointly by DARPA and Northrop Grumman and was discovered stationed at the Port Hueneme naval base in California.
Unveiling of Manta Ray via Google Maps
The Manta Ray’s existence became public knowledge when a sharp-eyed Google Maps user shared coordinates and satellite images revealing the UAV among other naval vessels. Named after its sleek design that echoes a marine creature, this UAV is designed for extensive, long-lasting missions in oceanic environments without the need for on-site human assistance.
Someone managed to find the DARPA Manta Ray on google maps
Coordinates
34°09'12"N 119°12'31"W pic.twitter.com/uMdDj2dMsO— nikola 3 (@ronin19217435) June 20, 2024
The Technological Prowess of Manta Ray
As per DARPA’s official website, the aim of the Manta Ray project is to demonstrate cutting-edge technologies that allow these UAVs to operate independently deep underwater over extended periods. Owing to these features, the Manta Ray serves as a formidable resource for the U.S. Navy with capabilities to gather intelligence, carry out surveillance, and potentially execute covert operations far beneath the ocean surface. It can anchor itself on the sea floor and enter a low-power mode which lets it stay concealed yet operational for long durations without refueling.
Northrop Grumman’s Role in Manta Ray Development
Northrop Grumman completed construction of this advanced underwater vehicle in April 2024. In a tweet marking this pivotal moment, Northrop Grumman lauded their considerable achievement: “Together with @DARPA & our industry partners, we have built Manta-Ray – a new type of uncrewed underwater vehicle. Manta Ray will operate long-duration, long-range missions in ocean environments, going where humans can’t.”
Operational Security and Strategic Importance of Manta Ray
The exposure of the Manta Ray via a widely accessible platform like Google Maps poses serious questions about operational security and vulnerability of classified military assets to open-source intelligence gathering. The images surfacing online show the vessel’s unique “Star Wars”-like appearance which sets it apart from other docked vessels.
This disclosure occurs as the U.S. is bolstering its underwater capabilities to counter growing maritime threats. The Manta Ray marks a significant advancement in unmanned underwater technology, giving the U.S. Navy unmatched range and stamina for oceanic operations. Its ability to navigate and carry out missions autonomously opens up new strategic possibilities for reconnaissance, mine countermeasures, and even offensive operations if required.
Manta Ray: A Testament to Technological Dominance
Despite its unplanned public unveiling, the creation of the Manta Ray underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to maintaining technological dominance in undersea warfare. The drone’s capability to harness energy from its surroundings for powering its lengthy voyages further boosts its operational sustainability and stealth.
Source: Patriot Clash
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