HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) has signed an agreement with Siemens Digital Industries Software to develop an autonomous ship manufacturing platform.

The partnership aims to integrate the entire shipbuilding process, including design, production, logistics, and sea trials, into a single 3D-model-based data environment. The system is designed to allow design changes and production updates to be transmitted in real-time to the shipyard floor.

As part of the project, HD KSOE plans to create a “Virtual Shipyard” to simulate production processes and equipment operations before physical construction begins. This digital environment will eventually support a “Physical AI” shipyard where autonomous systems and robots perform construction tasks independently.

“AI is not merely a tool for improving productivity, but a transformative technology that is reshaping how ships are designed, built and operated,” said Kim Hyung-kwan, President and CEO of HD KSOE.

The agreement is intended to establish a repeatable blueprint for modernising shipyards. Siemens will provide the digital twin and automation software, while HD KSOE will manage the operational implementation across its shipbuilding business.