The US Navy has tested the large unmanned submarine (XLUUV) known as Orca, a cutting-edge autonomous submarine designed for covert operations, including mine deployment.
Touted as a potential “game-changer,” this weapon could serve as a critical deterrent against China in the event of a direct military confrontation between Washington and Beijing.
The US Navy is striving to achieve maximum readiness by 2027, a pivotal year set by Chinese President Xi Jinping for a potential attack on Taiwan.
The Orca submarine is set to become a key asset enhancing US naval capabilities.
However, accelerating the production of large vessels within a limited timeframe remains “nearly impossible,” as only a few naval programs can scale up production to significant levels by 2027.