Samsung Heavy, Kongsberg to develop autonomous LNGC

Korea’s Samsung Heavy Industries has signed an agreement with Norway's Kongsberg Maritime for the development of an autonomous LNG carrier, it said on March 20.

The parties aim to develop a 174,000 m³ LNG carrier that is more energy efficient by optimising the latest remote autonomous navigation technology and low-carbon technology, Samsung Heavy said.

“We will focus our capabilities on technology development so that Samsung Heavy Industries' autonomous ships can be the optimal solution for reducing ship operating costs and operational risks for shipping companies,” said Jang Hae-ki, head of technology development at Samsung Heavy.

Samsung Heavy Industries said it had successfully demonstrated autonomous navigation from Mokpo to Dokdo with a 9,000 metric ton vessel last year, and developed autonomous navigation technology such as cyber security solutions for autonomous vessels using blockchain technology.