Raytheon tests submarine launch concept for UAVs

摘要

Raytheon is to soon demonstrate a system for launching unmanned air vehicles from underwater, moving a step closer to follow-on tests using a submerged submarine. US Navy submarines move relatively freely under the surface, but have limited vision at periscope height, says Jeff Zerbe, Raytheon programme director for the submarine over the horizon organic capabilities effort. For example, the top masts of an aircraft carrier could probably be detected by periscope from a distance of 20km (10.8nm), but the submarine would be unlikely to positively identify the vessel. The ability to launch a disposable unmanned aircraft from underwater could dramatically extend the visual range for surface contacts, says Zerbe.