Autonomous navigation order for Avikus

On 16 December, Avikus announced the signing of a supply contract with H-Line Shipping to provide HiNAS Control for commercial vessels. The signing ceremony was attended by key industry figures, including Sung-joon Kim, CEO of HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering, Do-hyeong Lim, CEO of Avikus, and Myung-deuk Seo, CEO of H-Line Shipping.

Under the agreement, H-Line Shipping will initially apply HiNAS Control to five vessels as part of a pilot programme aimed at validating the system’s safety and efficiency. Depending on the success of this first phase, the company plans to extend the deployment to up to 30 vessels by next year. This move highlights H-Line’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency and environmental performance, setting an example for other shipping operators considering autonomous navigation solutions.

Beyond the supply of HiNAS Control, the partnership will involve close collaboration on technical support and data analysis. This cooperation aims to optimise system performance and maximise the value of the technology for H-Line’s fleet operations.

HiNAS Control, developed by Avikus, integrates data from various navigation equipment and sensors to provide AI-driven guidance and control, enabling vessels to follow optimal routes and speeds. Avikus is recognised as the first company in the industry to commercialise an autonomous navigation solution meeting Level 2 of the IMO’s definition of autonomous ships, which allows for remote operation with crew onboard.

H-Line Shipping, one of South Korea’s largest shipping companies, stated that adopting autonomous navigation technology is part of its strategy to enhance operational safety, reduce crew workload, and meet environmental regulations through improved fuel efficiency. Myung-deuk Seo, CEO of H-Line Shipping, emphasised the importance of technological innovation in addressing stricter environmental regulations and building a sustainable future. “The adoption of HiNAS Control is expected to strengthen our global competitiveness,” he said.

Do-hyeong Lim, CEO of Avikus, described the contract as a significant opportunity to demonstrate the safety and efficiency of HiNAS Control. He also outlined plans to expand partnerships beyond domestic operators to include global shipping companies, further advancing the adoption of autonomous navigation technologies.

Avikus has already demonstrated the potential of HiNAS Control through a successful trial, achieving up to 15% fuel savings during a 9,334 km voyage. This proven track record highlights the economic and environmental benefits of autonomous navigation, which are likely to appeal to shipping companies seeking innovative solutions in an evolving maritime landscape.