South Korean Navy tests AI-guided mine-sweeping with unmanned vessels in Busan
The Republic of Korea Navy conducted its first trial of AI-directed mine-sweeping using a manned minesweeper, spy drones and autonomous surface and underwater vehicles off Busan.
At a naval base in Busan, the South Korean Navy carried out a pioneering mine-sweeping exercise that integrated artificial-intelligence guidance with both manned and unmanned assets. The scenario imagined an enemy blockade of the port, prompting the 730-ton Ongjin minesweeper, two unmanned surface vehicles and an autonomous underwater vehicle, all supplied by Hanwha Systems, to search for simulated mines. An AI "staff officer" analyzed sea-state and current information, then relayed optimal search zones to the human commander and the autonomous craft.
Simultaneously, spy drones monitored the operational environment around the harbor. Although the USVs are not yet fitted for actual minesweeping, they performed the role in the trial, indicating plans for future retrofits. The navy concluded that AI-supported missions combined with mixed crew configurations could enhance future maritime operations.
Why it matters
The test shows how AI and unmanned tech could make naval mine clearance faster and safer.
In this story