Lloyd’s Register (LR) has teamed up with SK Shipping and HD Hyundai Group, including HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Marine Solution, and Avikus, to develop a certifiable design for next-generation autonomous ships.
The agreement, announced at Posidonia 2026, focuses on defining a practical pathway for more highly automated vessel operations while aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) developing Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code.
Rather than pursuing fully unmanned vessels, the partners are focused on transitional designs that integrate advanced automation with reduced crew levels, reflecting evolving onboard operations.
The work will centre on four areas: unmanned bridge operations, digitally enabled machinery maintenance, automated deck handling and system-wide integration, with the aim of delivering a class-ready vessel concept that can be approved under emerging regulatory frameworks.
For LR, the project offers a live test case for shaping future class rules and certification approaches for autonomous ships, and it intends to use the findings to inform its ShipRight procedures and broader guidance for autonomy-based vessel design.
Sung-Gu Park, President – North East Asia, Lloyd’s Register, said: “For many clients, the real challenge is not access to new technology, but making the right decisions early in the lifecycle of a vessel. There is a growing need for trusted intelligence and practical guidance to navigate increasingly complex requirements around automation, digitalisation and future regulation.
“This collaboration allows us to help define designs that are not only innovative, but also buildable, certifiable and ready for operation. Ultimately, it is about giving our clients greater clarity and confidence to move forward with next-generation vessel projects.”
Harold Son, Head of Technology Innovation Office - SK Shipping, said: “As a vessel operator, our priority is to integrate technologies that tangibly enhance operational efficiency, as well as the safety of both the vessel and its crew. This collaboration is understood as a highly pragmatic approach to autonomy.
“By focusing on transitional designs that optimise onboard operations and alleviate crew workload, this can be viewed as a process of taking a vital step toward a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future for our fleet.”
Sangsik Yoon, Senior Vice President - HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, said: “As a leading maritime technology provider, HD Hyundai is dedicated to turning advanced autonomous concepts into practical, certifiable solutions.
“This tripartite collaboration is a significant milestone, allowing us to seamlessly integrate our cutting-edge automation and system architectures with SK Shipping’s operational expertise and LR’s robust regulatory framework. Together, we are paving the way for the next generation of smart, reliable vessels that prioritise safety and commercial viability.”
