In a significant advancement for autonomous navigation, HMM and Avikus, a subsidiary of HD Hyundai, have announced a landmark contract to implement second-generation technology on 40 of HMM’s vessels. This deal is being hailed as a pivotal moment in the commercialization of autonomous navigation, transitioning it from initial demonstrations to practical application in the maritime industry.
HMM plans to deploy these autonomous solutions on its vessels and has also partnered with Avikus and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering for collaborative research aimed at enhancing navigation technology. Avikus has now surpassed agreements to supply over 100 units for large commercial vessels, with initial installations primarily occurring through retrofits, although future newbuilds will incorporate the technology as well.
Jay H. Kang, CEO of Avikus, emphasized that this contract signifies a crucial shift towards large-scale commercialization of autonomous navigation. The technology, characterized as Level 2 automation, leverages artificial intelligence to manage navigation autonomously, optimizing routes and speeds to enhance fuel efficiency without crew intervention.
The maritime industry is increasingly turning to AI-based solutions to tackle challenges such as crew shortages and fatigue, which can impair decision-making. With many vessels currently in trials and aiming for class society approval, stakeholders are urging regulatory bodies like the IMO to establish frameworks that facilitate the integration of autonomous navigation across all shipping sectors.
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