Hanwha Partners with U.S. Autonomous Maritime Firm on MUSV—A New Pillar in the Korea-U.S. Defense Alliance

The era of unmanned fleets cutting through open seas is no longer a distant vision—it is unfolding now. Hanwha Defense USA has joined forces with U.S.-based maritime autonomy specialist Magnet Defense to launch the development of a Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV), marking a pivotal shift in Korea-U.S. defense cooperation.

At National Harbor in Maryland on April 20 (local time), the two companies formalized a strategic partnership that goes beyond conventional collaboration. Their ambition: to co-design the future of naval power by integrating AI-driven autonomy with advanced unmanned systems, positioning themselves at the forefront of next-generation maritime competition.

The jointly developed 38-meter-class MUSV is far more than an unmanned vessel—it is envisioned as a fully integrated “smart combat platform.” From hull design and mission systems to autonomous navigation software, every layer will be co-engineered. Hanwha’s precision missile technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities will merge with Magnet Defense’s cutting-edge autonomy solutions to deliver a high-performance, high-efficiency unmanned asset.

Confidence in the project is reinforced by Magnet Defense’s flagship platform, the “M48,” which has already demonstrated exceptional capabilities—over 17,000 nautical miles of range and reliable operation in extreme maritime conditions. Combined with proven transit through the Panama Canal and resilience in high sea states, the new MUSV is expected to emerge as a critical asset for long-range missions and rapid force projection.

This partnership signals more than a new vessel—it represents a strategic expansion of defense collaboration. Both companies plan to extend cooperation into AI-powered robotic shipyards and next-generation autonomy software, aiming to transform the entire defense production ecosystem. The initiative reflects a broader shift toward an “alliance-based defense ecosystem,” moving beyond exports to true co-development.

As global security dynamics rapidly evolve, unmanned maritime systems are becoming indispensable—offering both cost efficiency and operational flexibility. In this context, the Hanwha–Magnet Defense partnership stands out as a timely and forward-looking move.

Hanwha aims to leverage this collaboration to respond more swiftly to U.S. military requirements while expanding its support capabilities for allied nations, strengthening its global defense footprint. Industry observers see this partnership as a turning point, signaling the evolution of Korea’s defense industry from export-driven growth to alliance-based innovation.

Michael Coulter, CEO of Hanwha Defense USA, stated, “Hanwha is committed to securing MUSV capabilities that can be effectively deployed in conflict scenarios. Through this partnership, we expect to combine our manufacturing expertise and advanced robotics with Magnet Defense’s autonomy technologies to deliver a new generation of maritime power.