US Navy’s Orca XLUUV completes 1,000-nautical-mile voyage during RIMPAC
During the recent RIMPAC drills, the Navy’s Orca extra-large unmanned undersea vehicle traveled more than 1,000 nautical miles, showcasing its autonomous range.
At the conclusion of last month’s Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercises, US Navy leaders highlighted the capabilities of the Orca extra-large unmanned undersea vehicle. Rear Admiral Chris Cavanaugh, commander of the Pacific Fleet’s Submarine Force, and Rear Admiral Marcos Jasso of Carrier Strike Group 9 spoke aboard the supercarrier USS Theodore Roosevelt about integrating unmanned systems with carrier groups. The Orca, built by Boeing and procured at $274 million for five units, completed a 1,000-nautical-mile autonomous transit, marking its longest test to date.
Designed with a hybrid diesel-electric drive, the 85-foot vehicle can carry up to eight tons of modular payloads for missions ranging from mine laying to surveillance in contested waters. The Navy is exploring additional sonar and payload options to improve seafloor mapping and under-sea situational awareness, especially in regions like the South China Sea. The successful trial underscores a shift toward unmanned platforms to augment manned submarines and maintain undersea advantage in the Pacific.
Why it matters
The test proves the US can deploy long-range, unmanned submarines, enhancing naval reach and stealth in contested waters.
In this story
