US to test unmanned submarine

The US Navy (Navy) this summer will test an 80-ton unmanned submarine Orca, equipped with a 34-foot (about 10 meters) payload module for the hidden placement of mines and other cargo.

Captain Scott Searles, head of the Navy's unmanned maritime systems program, made the remarks, Lenta.ru reports, citing Sea Power Magazine.

According to a representative of the US Navy, five such devices are being built by Boeing, and the first tests took place in April. Due to their large size, the vehicles will be transported from naval bases, and not by submarines. The American fleet will receive it within five years, Searles promised.

Diesel-electric submarine capable of reaching speeds of up to 15 kilometres per hour underwater at a depth of 3,300 metres. The main task of Orca will be the placement of mines. It is also assumed that it will be able to launch cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as use onboard torpedo armament against enemy submarines.