2023-12-28 12:29:04
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The US Navy has taken delivery of its first giant robotic submarine, Orca, which is capable of underwater exploration with a range of 10,500 km. Photo/NewAtlas/Boeing
WASHINGTON – The US Navy has taken delivery of the submarine robotics his first giant, Orca. This Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) made by Boeing is capable of exploring underwater with a range of 10,500 km.
Orcas are submarine the largest autonomous naval force ever built measured 26 meters long and had a payload capacity of 8.8 tons. Orca is the first of four robotic submarine prototypes ordered by the Navy and marks the entry of a new class of ship.
Quoted from the NewAtlas page, Thursday (28/12/2023), Orca is based on Boeing’s XLUUV Echo Voyager concept which was first launched in 2017. Orca has completed a series of tests, including extensive surface and underwater trials.
The Orca is powered by a hybrid diesel/lithium-ion battery system, so it can operate underwater for long periods. Then return to the surface to use the diesel engine to recharge thanks to a retractable pole that also functions as a snorkel.
The payload section can accommodate modules up to 10 meters long and travel at a maximum speed of 8 knots (15 km/h). Orca has a range of 10,500 km and an endurance of several months below sea level.
“This is the culmination of more than a decade of work developing a fully autonomous, long-range undersea vehicle with a large payload capacity,” said Ann Stevens, vice president of Boeing Maritime and Intelligence Systems.
Although Orca is large for an autonomous submarine, it appears small compared to conventional vessels. This is deceptive, however, as Orca does not require the life support systems, crew quarters, safety systems, or soundproofing of human-carrying submarines.
As a result, it is a much more compact vehicle and can fit a lot of stuff in a very small space. The autonomous system on Orca is capable of handling navigation and missions in contested waters.
“I am excited to watch our team realize this unique capability. “I am proud of their innovation, perseverance and unwavering commitment that has resulted in the world’s most advanced and capable UUV,” added Stevens.
(wib)
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