RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
Raytheon's Barracuda has undergone environmental tests. (Photo: RTX/Raytheon)
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
RTX Raytheon has been progressing with the development of a new version of the Barracuda mine neutraliser. The new variant has been designed to be larger and more advanced than the capability that the company will supply the US Navy (USN) under the Mine Countermeasures Unmanned Surface Vehicle (MCM USV) initiative.
Although the manufacturer would not disclose details about the features and capabilities of the future platform, an RTX spokesperson explained to Shephard that the new model has been designed to perform a different mission set and be deployed in subsea and seabed warfare operations.
“Because Barracuda is modular and
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![AUKUS settles into steadier waters as industrial pathways widen]()
AUKUS settles into steadier waters as industrial pathways widen
Sessions at UDT 2026 signalled that the AUKUS programme is pressing ahead at a steady pace – with trilateral commitment reaffirmed, Australian industrial capacity expanding and additive manufacturing emerging as an opportunity for suppliers.
-
![Latest Russian subsea standoff puts pressure on the UK’s seabed defence strategy]()
Latest Russian subsea standoff puts pressure on the UK’s seabed defence strategy
UK defence secretary John Healey’s exposure of a covert Russian deep-sea operation against undersea infrastructure in the Atlantic validates the Royal Navy’s Atlantic Bastion concept but lays bare a capacity gap that autonomous systems, allied integration and sustained investment must close.
-
![Could the USCG icebreaker requirement open the door for more inland shipbuilding?]()
Could the USCG icebreaker requirement open the door for more inland shipbuilding?
The formation of a Great Lakes shipbuilding alliance could prompt a shift in how the US approaches naval and coast guard construction. But can distributed inland shipyards ease the country’s shipbuilding capacity?
