Key Points:
- Hyundai Heavy Industries is partnering with Palantir Technologies to co-develop an unmanned surface vessel (USV) for maritime surveillance.
- The collaboration aims to produce a USV for maritime surveillance by 2026 and explore opportunities for combat applications at sea.
- HHI plans to integrate Avikus’ autonomous navigation software with Palantir’s AI-based mission autonomy technology to enhance the USV’s capabilities.
- Palantir brings extensive experience in AI and has collaborated with leading entities such as the U.S. Department of Defense and Lockheed Martin.
Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), a leading Korean shipbuilder, announced on Sunday a strategic partnership with Palantir Technologies, a prominent U.S.-based artificial intelligence (AI) company, to co-develop an unmanned surface vessel (USV) tailored for maritime surveillance purposes.
The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, aims to produce a cutting-edge USV equipped for maritime surveillance by 2026. Furthermore, the partnership seeks to expand its scope to develop a USV optimized for combat applications at sea in the future.
According to HHI, adopting Unmanned Surface Vessel represents a significant paradigm shift in naval warfare, as they offer a safer and more versatile alternative to traditional manned vessels. These unmanned vessels can perform various missions in hazardous environments, including surveillance, mine detection and removal, and combat operations.
To facilitate this ambitious project, HHI plans to leverage the expertise of its subsidiary Avikus in autonomous navigation software. This software will be integrated with Palantir’s AI-driven mission autonomy technology, enhancing the USV’s capabilities and efficiency in maritime operations.
Palantir Technologies brings a wealth of experience to the partnership, having served prestigious clients such as the U.S. Department of Defense, the Navy, and the Army. The company’s AI-based solutions have been instrumental in projects such as modernizing integrated combat systems for the American Navy in collaboration with Lockheed Martin.
Joo Won-ho, head of HHI’s naval special ship business unit, said, “The USV market is a blue ocean market where advanced technology plays a decisive role.” He expressed confidence that the collaboration between HHI and Palantir will lead the way in this burgeoning field, building upon the achievements and trust established by both companies.
