ROK Navy taps HD HHI for next-gen combat USV design

South Korean shipbuilding heavyweight HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) is joining forces with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy to embark on the full-scale development of a next-generation combat unmanned surface vehicle (USV), anticipated to revolutionize future naval warfare.

On April 22, the company announced the signing of a pivotal contract for the Combat Unmanned Surface Vehicle Conceptual Design Project, designated as a core initiative for the ROK Navy.

Using its knowledge in building Aegis destroyers, HD HHI is set to spearhead the development of next-generation USVs, which are expected to become crucial for safeguarding the country’s maritime security.

Combat USVs are designed to autonomously execute reconnaissance and close-quarters combat missions in forward operating areas, augmenting or replacing manned vessels. They form the linchpin of the emerging manned-unmanned integrated maritime defense framework.

HHI is scheduled to convene a project kick-off meeting this month, initiating an eight-month conceptual design phase for the combat USV. This phase, slated for completion by December, will focus on defining critical performance parameters, technological requirements, and acquisition strategies for the unmanned platform.

According to HD HHI, the resulting combat USV will prioritize enhanced reliability and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional manned ships.

“HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will present a blueprint for the era of combat unmanned surface vehicles that will lead manned-unmanned combined maritime power by incorporating unmanned, automated, and electrified technologies based on artificial intelligence (AI),” Won-ho Joo, Head of HHI’s Specialized Ship Business Division, said.

HD HHI recently signed several contracts with American companies to support maritime defense projects, including Anduril Industries, an American AI defense company. The deal includes the development and market entry of unmanned surface vehicles.