Science & Technology

Secretive 'Manta Ray' underwater drone spotted on Google Maps

By T.K. Randall
June 25, 2024 ·  8 comments

The Manta Ray is clearly visible in this image. Image Credit: Google Maps Sightings of secretive vehicles tend to be fleeting and difficult to capture, which is why this particular example - which showed up recently on Google Maps - is so unusual.

Eagle-eyed social media users couldn't believe their luck when, upon zooming in on the Port Hueneme naval base in California, they discovered a mysterious looking object in the water.

The impressive vehicle, which looks like something out of a Gerry Anderson TV series (think Thunderbirds or Stingray), is believed to be a secretive underwater drone known as Manta Ray.

Developed by the Northrop Grumman Corporation, the drone is reportedly capable of traveling at considerable speed over large distances underwater without needing to be refueled.It can also 'hibernate' on the ocean floor and remain undetected for long periods.

Such a vehicle would be ideal for scouring the ocean for enemy submarines.

According to reports, the satellite images went viral on Sunday, though there have been claims that at least some of these have since been replaced with doctored images.

Of course, while the Manta Ray is still a work in progress, it's existence can't be that much of a secret given that Northrop Grumman has even released a video about its development (see below).


Source: Mail Online | Comments (8)

Tags: Manta Ray