Lockheed Reveals New Drone Mini-Submarine That Attaches to Vessels
Lockheed Martin has introduced a revolutionary uncrewed undersea vehicle (UUV) named Lamprey. This innovative vehicle is designed to attach to the hulls of vessels and submarines, enabling it to travel covertly to mission areas. The Lamprey features a highly modular design, allowing it to perform multiple missions, including launching aerial drones, torpedoes, and decoys, as well as gathering critical intelligence.
Lamprey’s Multi-Mission Capabilities
Described as a multi-mission autonomous undersea vehicle (MMAUV), Lamprey has a square hull form and an internal payload capacity of 24 cubic feet. Its electrical design includes a hydrogenerator, enabling it to recharge during missions efficiently. It has multiple propulsion systems, featuring two rear propulsors and two mounted on the sides.
Operational Flexibility
Lockheed Martin emphasizes that Lamprey is built to meet the U.S. Navy’s needs for covert operations. The UUV can arrive at operational theaters with fully charged batteries after utilizing its hydrogeneration function onboard host vessels. The design allows for a diverse range of missions:
- Launching undersea and air kinetic/non-kinetic effects
- Conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
- Deploying equipment to the seafloor
Launch and Deployment Features
One of the Lamprey’s unique capabilities is its potential to launch uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for surveillance and kinetic strikes. Renderings showcase Lamprey equipped with retractable twin-tube launchers capable of deploying six drones. Additionally, it can launch small torpedoes from its internal bay.
Furthermore, the Lamprey may also deploy decoys similar to the U.S. Navy’s Mk 39 EMATT, designed to mimic submarine signatures. This multifunctional UUV can also carry various sensors, including sonar and radio frequency detection systems.
Strategic Advantages
The ability to attach to ships and submarines opens numerous operational possibilities. Lamprey could be transported discreetly by friendly vessels or larger uncrewed platforms. With its built-in recharge capability, the UUV can undertake multiple missions throughout a single deployment.
Implications for Naval Warfare
The presence of Lamprey introduces significant challenges for opponents. Its covert deployment in maritime chokepoints enhances sea control and area denial. Lamprey’s design allows for extensive monitoring capabilities and the potential to create disruptions in naval operations.
In tactical scenarios, Lamprey may even have the capacity to attach to enemy vessels and detonate, serving as an explosive device in critical situations. However, further details about its specific capabilities, range, and endurance remain undisclosed.
Future of Undersea Technologies
Lockheed Martin’s Lamprey signals an evolution in undersea technology. It reflects a growing trend toward modular, autonomous systems capable of diverse missions. The U.S. Navy has been exploring similar technologies, illustrating the ongoing development in naval warfare strategies.
As nations upgrade their naval capabilities, understanding the operational potential of systems like Lamprey is crucial for future defense planning.
