Germany has unveiled an innovative torpedo drone project for submarines, developed by Gabler Naval Technology.
The program includes the Ranger, designed for reconnaissance, and the Raider, intended for long-range strikes. Both are 4.5 meters long and compatible with standard torpedo tubes, including 533 mm tubes used by NATO countries, capable of submerged launch with electric propulsion to maintain a low acoustic signature.
The Ranger is a reusable drone equipped with real-time surveillance systems, allowing the submarine to launch and maneuver it undetected. It features an extended keel with sensors and an optical mast for semi-submersible observation. The Raider is designed to strike targets at long distances while keeping the launch platform safe and out of enemy range.
While exact technical details have not been disclosed, their capabilities are expected to be similar to electric torpedoes of comparable size, such as the Black Shark or DM2A4, with a range of about 50 km and speeds up to 50 knots. The main advantage of these new unmanned platforms is the extended operational reach, combining the attack drone with autonomous reconnaissance capabilities for precise target detection and designation.
The project aligns with the German Navy’s plans to modernize its fleet with unmanned systems.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: LinkedIn – Gabler | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team
