- ABS will work with HHI and its autonomous navigation subsidiary Avikus to integrate autonomous and remote-control functions into ship operations.
- This strategic agreement is expected to lead to joint projects to develop autonomous navigation and vessel remote control applications.
- These Joint projects are set to be carried out in compliance with requirements outlined in the ABS Guide for Autonomous and Remote Control Functions.
ABS will jointly work with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering (KSOE) and its autonomous navigation subsidiary Avikus to integrate autonomous and remote-control functions into ship operations, says an article published in Riviera Maritime Media.
Strategic framework agreement
ABS, HHI, KSOE, and Avikus signed a strategic framework agreement at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, US on 5 January 2022.
“Autonomous vessels will have a significant role to play in the future of maritime transportation, but they will need to be at least as safe as existing vessels,” said ABS executive vice president and chief operating officer John McDonald.
“It will take extensive research and development activity, teamwork, and sharing of expertise among the leading maritime players to get us there.”
This is why ABS teamed up with HHI’s expertise to develop practical applications of the technology.
Practical autonomous ships
KSOE chief technology officer Sung Joon Kim expects this agreement to enable autonomous ship development. “It is very meaningful to work on long-term joint development of autonomous ships with ABS,” he said.
“This is a key topic in the future of shipbuilding and of the maritime industry. We look forward to comprehensive co-operation for the development of practical autonomous ships, including safety management and remote control, along with the advancement of navigation automation technology, led by HHI group.”
ABS has been working with leading companies on autonomous and remote control vessel projects in other regions, partnering to test remote control and autonomous technology applications on vessels in Singapore, northern Europe, and the US. Information and experience from these projects were used to develop ABS’ Guide for Autonomous and Remote Control Functions.
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Source: Riviera Maritime Media
