Innovative undersea defense technologies
Future of Naval Defense: Introducing Ghost Shark and Manta Ray
The undersea realm is set to witness a new era of protection, with the introduction of cutting-edge prototype uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) named Ghost Shark and Manta Ray. Developed by Australia and the United States respectively, these UUVs represent the future of undersea warfare, offering the ability to exert power while minimizing risks to human life.
The deployment of drones in aerial warfare has become commonplace, with the US employing them extensively in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now, newer, more affordable drones are playing pivotal roles in military operations worldwide, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
However, while aerial and surface sea drones can be controlled using satellites and radio waves, underwater communication presents unique challenges due to factors such as water temperature, salinity, and depth.
A recent study published in the Swiss journal Sensors highlighted the complexities of underwater communication, which require significant energy and still suffer from data loss.
The Ghost Shark and Manta Ray UUVs are pioneering solutions to these challenges. Australia’s Ghost Shark, developed by the Defence Science and Technology Group, Navy, and Anduril Australia, is hailed as “the most advanced undersea autonomous vehicle in the world.” Its capabilities include stealthy, long-range autonomous undersea warfare, conducting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and strike missions.
Despite remaining classified, the Ghost Shark prototypes have garnered attention for their rapid development, starting just two years ago and already expecting production models by next year.
In a similar vein, the US Navy’s Orca UUV, developed by Boeing, offers cutting-edge autonomous capabilities. Its modular payload section enables various mission executions, including reconnaissance and strike.
The development of these UUVs marks a shift in naval defense strategies, with companies like Anduril and countries like Australia emphasizing speed, affordability, and effectiveness in capability development.
Meanwhile, Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray, another US prototype, stands out for its modularity and transportability. DARPA highlights its ability to be broken down and reassembled, showcasing a first-of-its-kind capability for an extra-large UUV.
While the development of Ghost Shark and Orca has progressed rapidly, Manta Ray’s journey began in 2020 and continues with DARPA engaging with the US Navy for further testing and transition.
China, identified as a key threat in the Pacific by the US military, is also making strides in UUV technology. With at least six extra-large UUVs under development, Beijing’s advancements underscore the global trend towards enhancing undersea capabilities.
In addition to Australia, the US, and China, several other countries are actively developing UUVs, reflecting the growing importance of undersea warfare in modern naval strategies.
