HD Hyundai's Avikus Secures First Universal Autonomous Navigation Certification

Event summary

  • Avikus, HD Hyundai's autonomous navigation subsidiary, received Type Approval (TA) from DNV for its HiNAS Control system on April 7, 2026.
  • HiNAS Control is the first mass-produced autonomous navigation support system certified for use across multiple vessel types.
  • The system combines perception, decision-making, and control functions to detect obstacles and avoid collisions.
  • Avikus has surpassed 500 cumulative orders for HiNAS Control since its application as a standard specification in 2023.

The big picture

This certification positions HiNAS Control as a standard technology in the autonomous navigation market, addressing a critical gap in safety and reliability standards. As the International Maritime Organization (IMO) develops the non-mandatory Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code, Avikus's system and its verification framework could significantly influence the technical standards of the industry. The approval underscores the growing commercial viability of autonomous navigation technologies in maritime operations.

What we're watching

Regulatory Influence
Whether DNV's verification framework will shape future IMO standards for autonomous navigation.
Market Adoption
The pace at which global shipowners integrate HiNAS Control following its Type Approval.
Technological Leadership
How Avikus will leverage this certification to maintain a competitive edge in the autonomous navigation market.