High-tech aquatic drone 'Manta Ray' exposed on Google Maps
- A top-secret aquatic military vessel known as the 'Manta Ray' has been revealed through Google Maps by vigilant users.
- The drone was spotted in California and remains accessible to the public, sparking curiosity and concern about its purpose.
- The expose of the secretive underwater technology has raised questions about security and surveillance capabilities.
In a recent development, sharp-eyed users have identified a top-secret submarine prototype named "Manta Ray" on Google Maps images, sparking intrigue among military and aeronautical enthusiasts. The futuristic vessel, designed by Northrop Grumman, was spotted docked at the Port Hueneme naval base in California. The submarine, aptly named after the marine creature due to its design and stealth capabilities, is part of a U.S. Navy project to enhance the nation's underwater fleet of unmanned vehicles. Dr. Kyle Woerner, program manager for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, highlighted the Manta Ray's ability to remain submerged for extended periods without the need for refueling. The agency is collaborating with the military to conduct further testing and explore potential applications for the advanced aquatic drone. The vessel's modular design allows for easy assembly in limited spaces and rapid deployment using standard shipping containers. The high-tech underwater drone is equipped for underwater threat detection and long-duration missions, operating autonomously without human intervention. Northrop Grumman's cutting-edge technology aims to enable soldiers to focus on land missions without interruptions for maintenance or refueling of the underwater craft. The unveiling of the Manta Ray on Google Earth has drawn attention to the secretive US drone weapon, shedding light on its innovative capabilities and potential strategic uses in maritime operations. As defense analysts speculate on the strategic implications of the Manta Ray's deployment, the U.S. Navy's pursuit of advanced unmanned undersea vehicles signals a shift towards enhancing maritime surveillance and security capabilities. With ongoing advancements in autonomous technologies and underwater drone capabilities, the development of long-range, long-duration drones like the Manta Ray represents a significant leap in underwater warfare capabilities. The unveiling of this cutting-edge technology underscores the evolving landscape of naval defense and the integration of advanced robotics in modern military operations.