USS Manta (SS/ESS/AGSS-299), a Balao-class submarine, was the first submarine and second ship of the United States Navy to be named for the manta, a very large ray, sometimes called a devilfish. The second Manta (SS-299) was laid down 15 January 1943 by the Cramp Shipbuilding Co., Philadelphia, Pa.; launched 7 November 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Michael J. Bradley; and commissioned 18 December 1944, Lt. Comdr. Edward P. Madley in command.