ZeroNorth and Avikus Team Up to Develop Autonomous Navigation Solution
Denmark-based technology company ZeroNorth has joined forces with South Korea’s autonomous navigation systems venture Avikus, part of HD Hyundai, to work on a joint solution that marries autonomous navigation with real-time voyage optimization.
Per the partners, the contract was signed on June 4 at a maritime event held in Oslo, Norway. ZeroNorth and Avikus are set to create a groundbreaking solution that combines ZeroNorth’s voyage and vessel optimization platform with Avikus’ Level 2 autonomous navigation system, HiNAS.
The innovative solution aims to automatically adjust a ship’s speed and route, enhance safety with smart collision avoidance using real-time data on weather, fuel consumption, and navigation instructions. This tool could lead to more efficient operations, minimal fuel use, and lower greenhouse gas emissions, according to Avikus.
Representatives from Avikus also mentioned that the system, suitable for both newbuilds and retrofits, is expected to improve ship-to-shore connectivity.
CEO of ZeroNorth, Søren C. Meyer, expressed, “Maritime autonomy represents the next frontier for our industry – much like autonomous driving is transforming mobility on land. This partnership can bridge the gap between optimal voyage plans and real-world execution on board, improving safety and efficiency.”
Avikus’ HiNAS Navigation System
Avikus’ HiNAS is a maritime navigation suite that integrates AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and augmented reality to assist and automate ship navigation. The system comprises HiNAS Navigation, HiNAS Control, and Cloud modules. Avikus has already equipped over 350 ships with this solution, with more projects in the pipeline.
On the other hand, ZeroNorth’s optimization platform uses AI-powered models and real-time data to generate insights for voyage, vessel, and bunker optimization. The platform has been utilized on over 5,500 ships to date.
Recently, Avikus received a Type Approval Design Certification (TADC) from DNV for the HiNAS Control Standard, confirming compliance with Decision Support, Collision Avoidance, and Navigation Functions guidelines.
South Korea’s Vision for Autonomous Navigation
The emergence of autonomous ships leveraging advanced digital and AI solutions has gained traction in the maritime industry. The IMO is in the process of developing a mandatory maritime autonomous surface ship (MASS) Code, expected to be implemented by 2032.
South Korea has also been proactive in exploring autonomous ship technology. The Korea Autonomous Surface Ship (KASS) project, launched in 2020, aims to develop and deploy autonomous sailing systems with a $120 million investment. Various stakeholders, including KRISO and Lloyd’s Register, are involved in this initiative.
In April 2025, the South Korean government unveiled a strategic roadmap for autonomous vessel technology, outlining a ten-year plan to develop core technologies, enhance competitiveness, nurture talent, and update policies.