Some proposed large uncrewed submarines are compared with the U class in physical size. Similar range and operating requirements help explain that resemblance. XLUUVs are presented as a way for the US Navy to operate conventional submarines without crews, with mine laying among their expected roles. Covertly laid mines allow the boat to be well away when a target encounters them. The comparison also recalls how heavily mines figured in U-class losses.
Notable Point · 7:58:25-8:00:34
Why modern uncrewed submarines resemble the U class
Large uncrewed underwater vehicles are approaching U-class dimensions because similar range and payload demands lead back to a proven small-submarine scale.