The surface of the American drone "Sea Hunter" in the framework of the tests was in an autonomous raid the way from San Diego (California) to Pearl Harbor (Hawaii).
According to the developers, the device is fully ready for tests in conditions as close as possible to the combat ones.
During the current year, the Sea Hunter is planned to continue the implementation of the expanded test program.
Tests apparatus lasts from 2016. "Sea Hunter" is designed to detect enemy submarines. It is supposed to be used in a single system uniting P-8A “Poseidon” patrol aircraft, MQ-4C “Triton” UAV and sonar buoys. The marine apparatus is equipped with the latest sonar and sensors capable of detecting and classifying surface and underwater objects in advance.
The displacement of the “hunter” - 145 tons, length - 40 m, speed - up to 27 knots. According to the developer, he can withstand the excitement of the sea up to 7 points.
However, in turn, the US Department of Defense does not intend to stop there. Soon, by order of the military department, another surface drone will be developed under the code name "Sea Hunter - 2". The cost of its development is estimated at 43.5 million dollars. New sea drone will be improved based on the experience of its predecessor.
