Defence

Google Maps Exposes Secret US Naval Drone ‘Manta Ray’

Internet users were recently taken by surprise when they discovered an unusual sight on Google Maps: a US naval submarine drone called the ‘Manta Ray’ docked at Port Hueneme naval base in California.

US naval submarine drone ‘Manta Ray’ spotted

This sighting stirred a mix of curiosity and concern, leading many to question whether this was a deliberate reveal or a security oversight. Soon after, the image was replaced with that of a normal ship, adding to the mystery.

REPORT: OOPS!
A Top-Secret U.S. @DeptofDefense Underwater Drone Called The “Manta Ray” Has Allegedly Been Spotted On Google Earth Docked At the @portofhueneme Naval Base In California. Hueneme Naval Base Is part of Naval Base Ventura County (@NBVCCalifornia) pic.twitter.com/xbn5zJ9Ore
— John Basham (@JohnBasham) June 25, 2024

The Manta Ray submarine drone is a sophisticated piece of technology designed to remain underwater for extended periods. Equipped with advanced sensors, it is capable of detecting underwater threats and hibernating on the sea floor without the need for frequent refueling. This unique drone uses buoyancy to glide seamlessly through the water, both below and above the surface.

One of the standout features of the Manta Ray is its modular design, allowing it to be disassembled and transported in standard shipping containers. This eliminates the necessity for dedicated port facilities, making its deployment more flexible and efficient. The modular design enables the Manta Ray to be reassembled and deployed in various locations as needed.

Built by Northrop Grumman for a US Navy project

Built by Northrop Grumman as part of a US Navy project, the Manta Ray represents a significant advancement in underwater warfare technology. The project aims to develop long-range underwater weapons, with the Manta Ray at the forefront. The drone’s ability to hibernate on the seafloor for extended periods without refueling highlights its potential for long-term, covert operations.

The Manta Ray is designed with several payload bays of varying sizes, allowing it to undertake a wide range of naval missions. Despite its name suggesting a creature of the sea, the Manta Ray drone seemed to vanish from the internet as quickly as it appeared, leaving many to speculate about the true nature and capabilities of this top-secret aquatic weapon.

Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest that the Manta Ray’s adversary boasts a drone with a range of about 6,200 miles, capable of reaching speeds up to 100 knots (approximately 115 mph) and potentially being armed with nuclear weapons. This revelation underscores the high stakes and cutting-edge technology involved in modern naval warfare.

Defence

India Offers $200 Million LOC to Nigeria for Tejas Jets

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India and Nigeria have taken a major leap forward in their strategic partnership with a series of agreements signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high-profile visit to Nigeria on November 12. As reported by IDRW.

These agreements span critical areas, including defence, economic development, and food security, signaling a shared commitment to deepening bilateral ties.

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Among the standout developments, India has proposed the sale of its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), showcasing its growing role in global defense markets.

Advancing Defence Cooperation

A significant highlight of the agreements is India extending a $200 million Line of Credit (LOC) to Nigeria. This financial support is specifically designed to facilitate the procurement of the LCA-Tejas Mk1A from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

As Nigeria looks to modernize its air combat capabilities, the tejas Mk1A offers an advanced, cost-effective solution to replace the country’s ageing Chengdu F-7NI fighter jets, which are increasingly considered outdated against modern threats.

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The LCA-Tejas Mk1A is a state-of-the-art, single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft. Its advanced avionics, lightweight design, and powerful weaponry position it as a formidable choice for nations seeking affordable yet capable air defense solutions.

Strengthening Economic Ties

India’s interest in supplying the hal tejas is part of a broader strategy to challenge the dominance of Russia and China in Africa’s defense sector. India and Nigeria share a robust economic relationship, with India emerging as Nigeria’s largest trading partner in 2021-22.

The potential sale of 15 tejas mark 1a fighter jets aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its defense readiness and modernize its military.

This recent development follows India’s active push to establish itself as a key defense supplier to Nigeria. In March 2024, a defense industry delegation visited Abuja to explore potential exports, including the LCA tejas fighter jet.

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Nigeria has previously evaluated other Indian-made platforms such as the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand,’ the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) ‘Dhruv.’

India’s expanding defense engagement with Nigeria reflects its ambition to strengthen ties with Africa’s largest economy. With Nigeria looking to upgrade its military infrastructure, India’s competitive and reliable defense solutions offer a win-win partnership.