Splash Test of Manta Ray Long-Endurance UUV

The tests off Oahu, Hawaii, aimed to verify sensors, vehicle hydrodynamic performance, and key autonomy behaviors of the glider body By Joseph Macey / 29 Sep 2023

Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)

Discover cutting-edge solutions from 4 leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Splash Test of Long-Endurance UUV
Follow DA

A key milestone has been achieved in DARPA’s Manta Ray program as Pacmar Technologies unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) scaled prototype underwent in-water splash tests off of Oahu, Hawaii.

The tests aimed to verify sensors, vehicle hydrodynamic performance, and key autonomy behaviors of the glider body. 

Initial in-water testing including cycling of controls surfaces, activating thrusters, and measuring buoyancy.

The objective of the Manta Ray program is to develop and demonstrate a new class of long-duration, long-range autonomous underwater vehicle. The program approach includes rapid prototyping and early risk reduction prior to culminating in a more complex, full-scale final demonstration at sea.

“Splashing a vehicle is a major milestone for an undersea program,” said Dr. Kyle Woerner, Manta Ray Program Manager at DARPA. “This test provides important insights into key systems, allows us to validate assumptions and models, and gives us valuable data in preparation for our upcoming full-scale at-sea demonstrations. We are a critical step closer to realizing the program’s objectives for a new class of long-endurance autonomous underwater vehicle.”

PacMar Technologies and Northrop Grumman are the two Phase 2 performers on the Manta Ray program. Northrop Grumman is targeting a test of its prototype in 2024.

Find Unmanned Underwater Vehicle manufacturers and suppliers of military UUV > >

Posted by Joseph Macey Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Quadratix: Unified Software Ecosystem from General Atomics

Quadratix, a General Atomics vertically integrated software enterprise, aims to deliver agile, interoperable solutions that bridge air, land, sea, cyber, and space operations

Apr 17, 2025
Ophir® FoldIR Lens Enhances Long-Range Imaging for Defense & Security Operations

The new Ophir® FoldIR 25-275mm MWIR zoom lens delivers compact, long-range imaging with low-SWaP performance for drones and small gimbal platforms

Apr 17, 2025
Rugged Power Conversion Devices for Military & Defense Applications

Defense Advancement showcases RIPEnergy's field-proven power conversion products for military and defense applications

Apr 17, 2025
Forcys: Advancing Seabed Warfare with Integrated Payloads, Detection Tools & Secure Communications

Forcys outlines strategies for countering underwater threats, combining sensor payloads, communications tools, and autonomous systems with defense and commercial applications

Apr 17, 2025
Advancing EMP/HEMP Filter Technology for Modern EMI Threats

Spectrum Control highlights key advancements in EMP/HEMP filters designed to protect critical systems from EMI and electronic warfare in its white papers

Apr 16, 2025
24th Annual Future Artillery Conference Registration Details

The Indirect Fires community gathers for the 24th Defence iQ Future Artillery Conference backed by NATO and the British Army

Apr 16, 2025

Featured Content

Textron Systems to Support Software & Payload Development for Navy’s MCM USV

Textron Systems is set to support the software development and payload integration for the Navy’s Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), focusing on future mission capabilities and advanced system integration

Apr 14, 2025
Triad RF Systems Supplies Bi-Directional Amplifiers to Boost Naval Communications

Taiwan has received dual-channel bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) from Triad RF Systems, strengthening real-time data transmission and ISR functionality in unmanned naval platforms

Apr 11, 2025
How the MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Enhances Naval Surveillance & Warfare

GA-ASI explains how the MQ-9B SeaGuardian® supports naval operations with long-endurance surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and real-time intelligence for enhanced maritime security

Apr 08, 2025
Advancing Defense Capability Through Strategic Collaboration Defense Advancement works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive defense capabilities forward.