**Breaking News: US Navy Unveils Revolutionary Manta Ray Submarine Drone**

In a groundbreaking development, the US Navy is currently testing the state-of-the-art Manta Ray submarine drone, a significant leap in underwater drone technology that promises to transform naval operations and oceanographic research. This massive unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) is designed to operate at depths of up to 11,000 feet and boasts an impressive range of over 6,000 nautical miles.

The Manta Ray represents a major technological advancement since the 1960s, when the US Navy first ventured into underwater drone technology with the cable-controlled CURV. Unlike its predecessor, the Manta Ray operates autonomously, allowing for missions in environments too dangerous for human divers. Its deployment marks a new era in underwater exploration, with capabilities that extend far beyond traditional naval operations.

Equipped with sophisticated sensors, the Manta Ray is set to conduct vital oceanographic studies and mine countermeasures, gathering critical data on underwater geological formations and marine habitats. This drone is not just a tool for exploration; it’s a strategic asset that enhances the Navy’s ability to detect and neutralize underwater mines, ensuring safe maritime operations.

In tandem with other unmanned vehicles like the Kingfish, which utilizes advanced sonar technology to identify underwater threats, the Manta Ray is poised to revolutionize how the Navy navigates and secures the vast and often treacherous oceanic landscape. As military operations increasingly rely on advanced technology, the introduction of the Manta Ray could redefine naval warfare and oceanic research.

With its cutting-edge design and capabilities, the Manta Ray submarine drone is set to become a game-changer, ushering in a new age of underwater exploration and military readiness. The world watches closely as the US Navy tests this innovative technology, a testament to the relentless pursuit of advancement in naval capabilities. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.