Avikus, the autonomous maritime navigation subsidiary of HD Hyundai, has received Type Approval (TA) from the Norwegian classification society DNV for its HiNAS Control system.

The certification marks the first time a mass-produced autonomous maritime navigation system for multiple vessel types has received international approval.

HiNAS Control is an integrated system that combines perception, decision-making, and control functions. It detects nearby vessels and obstacles to manoeuvre and avoid collisions. The system’s collision avoidance capabilities are based on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). The approval follows a three-year validation process that established a safety and verification framework for autonomous maritime technology.

Lim Do-hyeong, CEO of Avikus, said the Type Approval demonstrates that the company’s technology has achieved global standards of safety and reliability. He stated that Avikus will continue to lead the development of international standards for autonomous navigation in collaboration with the HD Hyundai Group.

The certification is expected to inform future regulations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Vidar Dolonen, DNV’s manager for Korea and Japan, said the approval is a major milestone in moving autonomous navigation from the conceptual stage into commercialisation.

HiNAS Control has been a standard specification on vessels built by HD Hyundai since 2023. The system has received more than 500 cumulative orders to date. Avikus aims to use the certification to improve deployment efficiency and enhance confidence among global shipowners.