Northrop Unveils Manta Ray Undersea Drone Prototype

Northrop Grumman announced Monday that it has completed the assembly of a full-sized Manta Ray uncrewed underwater vehicle (UUV) prototype.

Built as part of a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) program, the undersea drone is an extra-large platform that can operate for a long duration and range.

It utilizes advanced technologies to enable low power consumption and increased payload capacity.

Based on a photo shared by Northrop, the platform features a sophisticated glider-like body and a rounded nose. The tail was not clear enough to see as the drone’s edges have been darkened.

The Manta Ray is expected to undergo design evaluations and trials, which will culminate with an open-ocean underwater demonstration.

‘Zero Human Logistics, Maintenance Support’

In December 2021, DARPA awarded Northrop and PacMar Technologies separate contracts to develop preliminary versions of the Manta Ray UUV.

It said the solution must support extended-range missions without human logistics and maintenance support.

Northrop claimed its prototype uses a novel, modular design for easy shipment during expeditionary deployment.

It can also reportedly accommodate various payloads to support different operations.

Additionally, Northrop’s Manta Ray has been designed with the ability to anchor to the seafloor and hibernate in a low-power state.

“Northrop Grumman has been pioneering capabilities in the undersea domain for more than 50 years,” the company stated. “Now, we are creating a new class of UUV … Taking its name from the massive ‘winged’ fish, Manta Ray will operate long-duration, long-range missions in ocean environments where humans can’t go.”