Manta Ray: Redefining Underwater Autonomy for New Zealand’s Blue Economy

Introducing Manta Ray — a revolutionary autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) developed by Northrop Grumman and backed by DARPA. With a sleek, modular design inspired by the natural efficiency of manta rays, this cutting-edge craft is capable of travelling vast distances, operating independently for months at a time, and conducting deep-sea missions — all without human intervention.

For New Zealand, where the marine territory is over 15 times larger than its landmass, this technology offers massive potential. Whether it's oceanographic research in the Chatham Rise, infrastructure monitoring near offshore wind developments, or patrolling marine reserves in the Subantarctic, Manta Ray could be a game-changer for Kiwi scientists, engineers, and environmental managers.

Built to glide silently through the ocean using buoyancy shifts rather than propellers, Manta Ray is not only energy efficient but also environmentally discreet. It can deploy a wide range of sensors for real-time data gathering, seabed mapping, or even biosecurity surveillance — aligning perfectly with Aotearoa’s growing investment in marine sustainability and blue economy innovation.

Recently tested in open water off the U.S. coast, Manta Ray demonstrated autonomous navigation, seabed “hibernation” capability, and rapid field assembly — features that would enable New Zealand researchers to deploy it from remote bases like Niwa’s research vessels or field stations on the South Island.

As global ocean stewardship becomes more urgent, New Zealand is uniquely positioned to lead — and tech like Manta Ray could play a central role in how we explore, protect, and benefit from our oceans.

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