[KOLBIA/ March 22, 2023] Samsung Heavy Industries announced on the 20th that it has signed a JDA(joint development project agreement) with Norwegian maritime technology group Kongsberg Maritime (KM) to develop autonomous navigation vessels. KM is a global professional equipment manufacturer with the best technology in the field of automation, navigation systems and digital solutions mounted on ships.

Through this agreement, Samsung Heavy Industries aims to develop 174,000 cubic meter next-generation LNG carriers that will use the latest remote autonomous navigation and low-carbon technology for safer and more energy-efficient operations.

Samsung Heavy Industries intends to strengthen its strategic partnership with KM and its competitiveness in digital and eco-friendly products for the future autonomous navigation ship market.

Jang Hae-ki, head of Samsung Heavy Industries' technology development division (vice president), said, "We will focus our capabilities on technology development so that Samsung Heavy Industries' autonomous vessels can be the best solution to reduce shipping costs and operational risks."

On the other hand, Samsung Heavy Industries conducted a demonstration of autonomous navigation by performing a sea trial of a 9,000-ton vessel from Mokpo, South Jeolla Province, to Dokdo in the East Sea of South Korea, last year.