Tandemloc Lift Beam Supports Launch of Northrop Grumman Manta Ray UUV Program
- Meagan Wood
- Nov 21, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 14
30 Second Takeaway
A Tandemloc AZ32A lift beam was used to support the launch of Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray uncrewed underwater vehicle (UUV), a next-generation platform developed for long-duration undersea missions. The lift marked a key milestone in deploying advanced uncrewed undersea technology, supporting handling and launch operations for a vehicle designed to operate in environments beyond human reach.
Tandemloc lifting equipment supports Manta Ray deployment
As part of launch preparations for Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray UUV, a Tandemloc AZ32A lift beam was used to safely handle and position the vehicle during its transition into the water.
The lift beam supported controlled handling of the large-scale uncrewed underwater vehicle, ensuring load stability during a critical phase of the deployment process. The operation highlights the role of specialised beam lifting equipment in handling complex, high-value technology where precision and safety are essential.
Manta Ray UUV developed for long-duration undersea missions
Northrop Grumman has been developing capabilities in the undersea domain for more than five decades. The Manta Ray program represents the company’s latest step in advancing uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) capable of operating on long-duration, long-range missions.
Designed to function in ocean environments inaccessible to human operators, the Manta Ray UUV addresses challenges such as:
High external pressure
Low operating temperatures
Limited communications
Energy management over extended missions
The full-scale vehicle is intended to support autonomous operations at depth, reducing the need for on-site human logistics.
Advanced UUV design supports autonomy and efficiency
The Manta Ray UUV incorporates several design features aligned with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) vision for advanced undersea systems.
Key characteristics include:
Payload-capable architecture, supporting multiple mission profiles
Autonomous operation, without continuous human oversight
Energy-efficient design, allowing the vehicle to anchor to the seafloor and enter a low-power hibernation state
Modular construction, enabling transport in five standard shipping containers and assembly in the field
These features are intended to support expeditionary deployment and sustained undersea operations.
Precision lifting critical for advanced marine technology
Handling and deployment of uncrewed marine systems require lifting solutions capable of managing complex loads without compromising structural integrity. The use of a Tandemloc lift beam during the Manta Ray launch demonstrates the importance of engineered lifting equipment in supporting advanced technology programs.
Controlled lifting reduces risk during launch and recovery operations, particularly when handling large, asymmetric, or high-value assets destined for marine environments.
About Tandemloc
Tandemloc, Inc. designs and manufactures lifting beams, below-the-hook lifting devices, and load securement solutions used across construction, industrial, and specialised handling applications. The company’s equipment supports safe and controlled lifting of complex loads, including containers, machinery, and engineered systems requiring precise handling.
Tandemloc lifting solutions are used in projects where load stability, safety, and repeatable performance are critical to successful operations.
Website: https://www.tandemloc.com
About Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman is a global aerospace and defence technology company specialising in uncrewed systems, undersea platforms, and advanced mission solutions. The company has decades of experience in developing undersea technologies supporting defence, research, and strategic operations.
The Manta Ray UUV program reflects Northrop Grumman’s continued focus on advancing autonomous systems capable of operating in complex and remote environments.
Website: https://www.northropgrumman.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What lifting equipment was used during the Manta Ray launch?
A Tandemloc AZ32A lift beam was used to support handling and deployment of the Manta Ray UUV.
What is the Manta Ray UUV designed for?T
he Manta Ray UUV is designed for long-duration, long-range undersea missions in environments where human access is limited or impossible.
Why is specialised lifting equipment required for UUV deployment?
UUVs are complex, high-value systems that require controlled lifting and load stability to prevent damage during handling and launch.
Who developed the Manta Ray UUV?
The Manta Ray was developed by Northrop Grumman in support of advanced undersea mission requirements.
What makes the Manta Ray UUV suitable for extended missions?
Its autonomous operation, energy-efficient design, modular construction, and ability to hibernate on the seafloor support long-term deployment.
