HD Hyundai Demonstrates Autonomous Unmanned Surface Vessel

The South Korean shipbuilding company HD Hyundai recently showcased the autonomous capabilities of an unmanned surface vessel in a joint demonstration with the American defense firm Anduril, off the coast of California's Port of Long Beach. Around 40 officials, comprising representatives from the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, Republic of Korea Navy, and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, attended the event.

The vessel utilized in the demonstration was a customized 368-ton large unmanned surface test craft that was previously operated by the U.S. Navy. HD Hyundai's in-house-developed total ship autonomy solution, VAone, was integrated with Anduril's mission autonomy solution, Lattice, to create a comprehensive autonomous navigation system.

During the three-and-a-half-hour demonstration, the unmanned surface vessel successfully executed various scenarios that could transpire in real maritime operations. These included autonomous navigation, mission changes, formation operations, and emergency response measures in the event of an engine failure. The entire process was broadcast live through a land-based control center, allowing attendees to witness the unmanned vessel's autonomous decision-making and responses.

Following the successful demonstration, HD Hyundai announced plans to intensify its efforts in the U.S. unmanned surface vessel programs and the global market, where demand for such technology is surging rapidly. Jang Gwang-pil, a vice president at HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, highlighted the vessel's ability to handle complex missions in diverse real-world situations that may arise after departure.

He emphasized that the company aims to secure an early lead in the market through continuous technological advancements.