New MOU to combine ship automation expertise with AI-powered Defense Technologies

HD Hyundai has announced a strategic partnership with U.S. artificial intelligence defense company Anduril Industries to develop unmanned surface vessels (USVs), signifying a significant move towards capturing the emerging USV market.

The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on April 4, aims to combine HD Hyundai’s autonomous navigation technology with Anduril’s cutting-edge defense AI technology.

This partnership comes amidst projections of rapid expansion in the USV market. Research firm GlobalData forecasts the market to grow from $894 million in 2023 to $3.1 billion by 2033, reflecting an increasing demand for advanced maritime defense solutions that enhance operational efficiency and minimize risks to human life.

HD Hyundai plans to leverage its expertise in ship automation technology by integrating specialized functions for naval ships into its core AI autonomous navigation technologies. Anduril will focus on developing an autonomous mission execution system capable of automating swarm control and mission execution for USVs in combat scenarios.

Joo Won-ho, head of the Special Ship Business at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are pleased to collaborate with Anduril, an innovative company in the AI defense field, to develop unmanned vessels, which are key to the next-generation naval market. We aim to quickly realize the development of crew-reducing ships and unmanned vessels with advanced AI technology to become a driving force for acquiring mixed manned and unmanned naval power and exporting ships.”

Brian Schimpf, co-founder and CEO of Anduril, shared similar sentiments: “We are delighted to develop unmanned vessel technology in collaboration with the world’s leading shipbuilding and marine company. Our partnership with HD Hyundai will be a significant asset in entering the unmanned vessel market not only in the United States but worldwide.”

This collaboration aligns with HD Hyundai’s broader strategy to expand its partnerships with global AI companies and strengthen its presence in the burgeoning USV market. Last September, the company partnered with U.S. defense AI company Palantir to jointly develop another USV named “Tenebris” by 2026.

In addition to technological advancements, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is also enhancing “K-Marine Defense” competitiveness through strategic partnerships overseas, establishing local construction systems, and standardizing technology transfer packages based on advanced naval technologies. As both companies work towards realizing their collaborative goals, they are poised to contribute significantly to advancements in maritime defense technologies worldwide.

Source: Businesskorea