Hyundai Motor Group is collaborating with the Army to apply robotics and physical artificial intelligence (AI) technology in defense operations. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of military support tasks by integrating advanced technology into dangerous and repetitive duties traditionally performed by soldiers.
On August 14, Hyundai Motor Group announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Army and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy at the Army Headquarters in Gyeryong, South Chungcheong Province, to expand the use of robotics, physical AI, and advanced technologies.
This agreement was established to explore the potential applications of physical AI and other advanced technologies in the defense sector, in response to a decrease in military personnel and an increasing demand for cutting-edge technology. It also aims to test these technologies in real military operational environments.
Hyundai Motor Group will examine ways to apply physical AI in the defense sector in collaboration with government agencies. The group plans to engage in joint research on key technologies, including AI data, and to explore the use of hydrogen mobility and infrastructure, as well as projects linked to the Saemangeum AI Valley. They will also take the lead in establishing testbeds and operating pilot projects.
Specifically, starting this year, the Army's Pangyo 'AX Base' will analyze data collected during the testing process to identify areas for technological improvement through joint military-civilian research. The military AX bases are part of a civilian-military-academic convergence ecosystem being established in five regions, including Pangyo, to quickly integrate the latest civilian AI technologies into the defense sector.
The potential military applications of hydrogen technology will also be explored. Kia completed testing and evaluation of hydrogen-powered all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) with the military in May of last year. Additionally, the group is looking to connect a robotics manufacturing cluster and an AI data center to the Saemangeum AI Valley.
A Hyundai Motor Group official stated, "We will contribute to building a safe and efficient military support system and enhancing the competitiveness of domestic physical AI through technology validation and joint research that reflects on-site demands."
Meanwhile, Hyundai Motor Group is expanding its business into military and firefighting sectors. Hyundai has donated unmanned firefighting robots and medical wearable robots, Exoskeleton Max, to the Fire Agency to ensure the safety of firefighters.
Kia has been expanding its military vehicle business since being designated as a defense contractor in 1973, producing 2.5-ton trucks and 5-ton trucks. According to Kia's special business division, the delivery volume of military special vehicles is projected to be 6,122 units in 2024, up from 5,789 units last year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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