PDA

View Full Version : DARPA's "Underminer" project


Slater
12-04-20, 18:26
Seems like an answer to a question that nobody asked, and likely another dead-end program. To be tactically useful, it would seem like these tunnels would have to be constructed very quickly:

"The goal of the Underminer program is to demonstrate the feasibility of rapidly constructing tactical tunnel networks that enable secure, responsive resupply. A tactical tunnel network could provide secure logistics support infrastructure, such as pre-positioning supplies in advance of an operation or providing ongoing resupply as troops move through an area. The ability to rapidly bore tactical tunnels could be helpful in contingency operations such as rapid ammunition resupply or rescue missions."

https://www.darpa.mil/program/underminer
Diamondback
12-04-20, 19:59
There's a lot you need to know before you tunnel, it's not as simple as "grab shovels and start digging." Buildings above, utility routings, type of material you're punching through... and you can't just call 811 when in the middle of Indian Country.
MountainRaven
12-04-20, 20:43
This is the sort of thing that DARPA spends money on.

Seems really cool, if they can figure it out.
arbninftry
12-04-20, 21:36
https://news.yahoo.com/america-apos-mad-scientists-wanted-100000185.html

Not a new idea. Maybe it will work this time
FromMyColdDeadHand
12-05-20, 03:15
Sounds like someone watched Tremors or is tooo psyched for the new Dune...

If I didn’t know better I’d say that they already have something that will do it and then try to find a reason to explain why they have the technology.
Allen
12-05-20, 10:51
https://www.boringcompany.com/
ride57
12-05-20, 20:22
Just hire the Mexican Cartels.
HardToHandle
12-05-20, 21:15
Makes lots of sense - inherent direct/indirect fire protection and lower signature to detect.

Been involved in a past DARPA project. A lot of the activities are really out there, almost outlandish. Most fail or do not have a near-term application, but the stuff is sure interesting. They are one end of the military-industrial complex, the modern day embodiment of the very start of the Manhattan Project.
Slater
12-06-20, 06:32
The early AR-15's were part of DARPA's project AGILE in Vietnam.