IRIA News

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The U.S. leading defense firm Raytheon conducted a series of hydrodynamic controlled environmental tests for the U.S. Navy’s next-generation Barracuda Mine Neutralization System at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division.

Raytheon used a production representative test unit and deployed the Barracuda mine neutralizer in diverse sea states and water currents. The Barracuda successfully operated in various environments and collected data, demonstrating the ability to hydrodynamically control itself in ocean-like conditions.

The test also demonstrated the vehicle’s autonomous capability to detect, track, and maintain position on a target. This marked the first time Raytheon conducted such trials with the Barracuda mine neutralizer underwater vehicle, advancing the program closer to meeting its operational objectives.

President of Naval Power at Raytheon, Barbara Borgonovi said, “This event marks a significant milestone in the advancement of underwater security and naval defense,” adding that “Barracuda’s performance reaffirms its position as a game-changing solution for identifying and neutralizing naval mines, a critical challenge in modern naval operations.”

Barracuda Mine Neutralization System

The Barracuda Mine Neutralization System is an advanced, remotely operated system used for neutralizing sea mines in shallow waters, making it crucial for naval operations and the safety of military vessels. This semi-autonomous system utilizes sonar and camera technologies to identify and eliminate underwater mine threats.

Developed by the U.S. Navy in collaboration with Raytheon, the system represents a leap forward in mine countermeasures, replacing older methods of mine disposal that were either less efficient or more dangerous to human operators.

Raytheon received its initial contract for the Barracuda in 2018. After completing a critical design review in March 2023, the program transitioned into its qualification testing phase. In July 2023, Raytheon was awarded a contract to deliver engineering development model units to the Navy, with plans to enter Low-Rate Initial Production by 2027.

The system can be deployed during amphibious assaults and naval operations where mine threats are prevalent. It can effectively secure shipping lanes, protect naval vessels, and ensure the safety of beach landings. The Barracuda can also be used for clearing waterways that may have been mined during conflict or to ensure safe passage for commercial and military ships in areas prone to mine threats.

It is part of the U.S. Navy’s efforts to modernize its mine countermeasure capabilities, moving away from traditional methods like human divers and large minesweeping ships. Systems like Barracuda can be launched from small, unmanned surface vessels, enhancing operational flexibility.

As underwater mine warfare becomes more complex with adversaries deploying more advanced and harder-to-detect sea mines, the system is crucial for ensuring the safety of the U.S. Navy and naval operations.

Key Features:

Remote Operation: The Barracuda system is controlled remotely, reducing the risk to human personnel. Operators can stay at a safe distance while neutralizing mines, which significantly enhances safety during mine-clearing missions.

Precision and Flexibility: The Barracuda is equipped with advanced sensors and technologies that allow it to precisely target sea mines. It can identify and neutralize various types of mines, including those buried or tethered to the seafloor.

Multi-Environment Use: It is capable of operating in different environments, including shallow waters where mine threats are more challenging due to their proximity to harbors, beaches, or shipping lanes.

Autonomous Capabilities: The system is designed with semi-autonomous features, meaning it can perform certain tasks without direct operator intervention. This reduces the time and effort needed for mine-clearing operations, allowing quicker clearance of sea lanes or coastal areas.

Integrated Explosive Disposal: The Barracuda uses targeted explosive charges to neutralize the mines after identification, ensuring that the threat is eliminated without unnecessary collateral damage to surrounding areas.