Kraken Technology Group, a global leader in network-optimized remote operations, has announced an official collaboration with L3Harris Technologies, a leading provider of autonomous vessel technology, to advance the integration of control systems within the K40 MANTA prototype. The K40 MANTA is an uncrewed surface-subsurface (USSV) platform that uses foils for rapid surface transit before submerging for clandestine maneuvering. This collaboration marks a step in the technical evolution of Kraken’s K40 MANTA platform, setting the foundation for the development of enhanced autonomous capabilities and ultimately, full autonomy.
A groundbreaking platform for maritime security
The K40 MANTA is a revolutionary platform that combines the advantages of both surface and subsurface vessels. It can operate in both modes, switching between them as required by the mission. The platform is designed to perform a range of tasks, such as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), mine countermeasures (MCM), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and maritime interdiction operations (MIO). The K40 MANTA has a length of 12 meters, a beam of 3.5 meters, and a draft of 1.5 meters. It can reach speeds of up to 50 knots on the surface and 10 knots underwater. It has a range of 500 nautical miles and an endurance of up to 24 hours.
The K40 MANTA leverages the expertise and experience of Kraken Technology Group in network-optimized remote operations, which deliver real-time remote control, communication, automation, and monitoring capabilities. The platform also benefits from the cutting-edge control systems and advanced autonomy solutions of L3Harris Technologies, which has designed, built and operated autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) on a worldwide basis. The collaboration between the two companies will enable the remote control of the uncrewed platform for engineering testing, foil development, powertrain calibration and demonstration before enhancement in later developmental stages.
A strategic partnership for mutual benefit
The collaboration between Kraken Technology Group and L3Harris Technologies is based on mutual benefit and complementary skills. Both companies are leaders in their respective fields and have a shared vision of advancing the state-of-the-art in autonomous maritime systems. The collaboration also paves the way for broader cooperation, capitalizing on their shared expertise and further facilitated by their proximity to Portsmouth, a renowned UK marine innovation hub.
“We look forward to working with L3Harris on the implementation of key systems for K40 MANTA as a foundation for future developments,” said Mal Crease, founder and CEO of Kraken Technology Group. “L3Harris is proud to collaborate with Kraken on this groundbreaking platform,” said Mark Exeter, managing director, ASV, L3Harris. “Our two companies possess complementary skills, benefiting both organizations through this venture.”
The collaboration between Kraken Technology Group and L3Harris Technologies is expected to result in significant advancements in the field of USSV technology, which has the potential to transform maritime security operations in the future.
