Samsung Heavy, Accelerates Development of Next-Generation Autonomous LNG Carriers

Samsung Heavy Industries is accelerating the development of next-generation LNG carriers applying autonomous navigation and low-carbon technologies.

Jang Haegi, Head of Technology Development at Samsung Heavy Industries (left), is signing a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) for autonomous ship development with Lisa Edvason Haugan, CEO of Kongsberg Maritime, on the 20th.

On the 20th, Samsung Heavy Industries announced that it signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Norwegian equipment manufacturer Kongsberg for the development of autonomous ships. Kongsberg is a leading company in automation, navigation systems, and digital solutions installed on ships.

Through this agreement, Samsung Heavy Industries aims to develop a next-generation 174,000m³ LNG carrier that is safer and more energy-efficient by optimizing the latest remote autonomous navigation technology and low-carbon technology.

Last year, Samsung Heavy Industries successfully conducted an autonomous navigation sea trial from Mokpo to Dokdo with a 9,000-ton vessel. The company also developed a cybersecurity solution for autonomous ships using blockchain technology.

Jang Haegi, Vice President and Head of Technology Development at Samsung Heavy Industries, said, "We will focus our capabilities on technology development so that Samsung Heavy Industries' autonomous ships can be the optimal solution to reduce shipping companies' vessel operating costs and navigation risks."