HD Hyundai and Anduril Demonstrate Autonomous Surface Vessel for US Navy
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai and U.S. defence technology firm Anduril Industries have successfully demonstrated a scalable Unmanned Surface Vessel for the U.S. Navy. The operational demonstration used a modified 368-ton former U.S. Navy test vessel equipped with HD Hyundai’s proprietary VAone autonomy software, integrated with Anduril’s mission management systems.
Advancing Naval Autonomous Systems and Maritime Defense Technology
The joint initiative marks a key milestone in expanding software-defined naval autonomous systems designed to extend operational reach and enhance maritime security. By combining large-scale commercial shipbuilding expertise with software solutions, the initiative targets the rising demand for US Navy Autonomous Ships and modular surface platforms. Representatives from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Republic of Korea Navy, and the American Bureau of Shipping attended the demonstration.
The successful integration of autonomous technology onto proven hull designs offers a cost-effective pathway to scale Autonomous Vessels across defence and maritime security sectors. As global naval authorities prioritise modular, unmanned capabilities, strategic partnerships between shipbuilders and technology providers are positioned to drive the future of maritime operations.
