ABS and HD Hyundai Samho Join Forces to Develop AI-Based Smart Shipyard

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Samho have signed a memorandum of understanding to pursue technical collaboration on an artificial intelligence (AI)-based smart shipyard.

The agreement establishes a framework for the two organisations to apply digital technologies, including AI, automation, and robotics, to improve standards across shipyard operations. 

HD Hyundai Samho’s shipyard will serve as the test bed for identifying process enhancements through smart technology integration.

As part of the agreement, ABS will contribute by applying its established guidance on smart shipyard technologies to support the development and review process. The initiative is seen as part of a broader shift towards intelligent systems in the shipbuilding industry.

“Advanced technologies are transforming shipyard operations and opening new avenues for progress,” said chairman and CEO of ABS, Christopher J. Wiernicki. “Intelligent systems show promise for elevating health, safety and quality standards, driving efficiency and innovation in contemporary shipbuilding”.

Echoing this sentiment, senior executive vice president and chief operating officer at HD Hyundai Samho, Hwan-Gyu Kim, commented, “HD Hyundai Samho is standing at the center of the digital transformation crossroad. We should move forward from shipbuilding automation and digitalization to AI and data-driven decision-making for survival”.

In a related development, ABS has granted approval in principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for a floating small modular reactor (SMR) power module concept. This design aims to provide offshore and near-shore electricity generation, with applications for port facilities and coastal communities.

The latest approval marks the second for a floating nuclear power barge design developed by HD KSOE and comes as part of an extended partnership with ABS on nuclear propulsion and offshore energy projects. Previous collaborations have included an earlier power barge concept and a 15,000 TEU nuclear-powered container ship.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate HD Hyundai’s growing focus on digital transformation and alternative energy sources, emphasising efforts to modernise shipbuilding and expand offshore power capabilities in tandem with regulatory and industry partners.

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