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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)

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Splash Test of Long-Endurance UUV
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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.

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Posted by Joseph Macey Joseph Macey is a Content Specialist at Defense Advancement, where he has focused on emerging defense technologies since joining in 2022. His expertise spans tactical UAS, rugged computing, and Satellite Communication Systems. After graduating in Journalism from Falmouth University, Joseph began his career in 2019 as a local reporter. His journalism background enhances both his reporting and interview skills, enabling him to provide insightful, authoritative analysis of the latest trends shaping the defense industry. Connect
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