U.S. Navy Wants Its New Drone Submarines To Assume An Offensive Role In Future Conflicts

The U.S. Navy's first extra-large UUV, the Boeing Orca, could carry multiple 'moor-pedo' mines into action. These could be laid discretely from stand-off ranges, hundreds of miles from the nearest friendly unit. H I Sutton

Forbes: The U.S. Navy’s New Orca Drone Submarine Could Get Offensive Role

The U.S. Navy's Boeing Orca underwater drone could play an offensive role in future conflicts. Writing in the highly regarded U.S. Naval Institute (USNI) blog, retired Commander Brian Dulla argues that the U.S. Navy should reinvest in mine laying capabilities. It's an arena where large drones like the Orca could have advantages as mine layers.

Mine warfare feels neglected in the popular defense media. It may be perceived as old fashioned, slow or uninteresting. The reality can be quite different. Put yourself in the mind of a captain whose ship has just strayed into a minefield. Or the EOD (explosive ordnance disposal) diver sent to defuse the mines. Even low tech or vintage mines pose a very real threat to modern navies.

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WNU Editor: There is more detail on this sub here .... Boeing Is Building Big Orca Drone Subs For The Navy To Hunt And Lay Mines And More (Warzone/The Drive).