Hanwha Defense USA, Magnet Defense advance 38m MUSV program with AI autonomy for US Navy and allies

Strategic partnership unveiled at Sea-Air-Space Exposition

At this year’s Sea-Air-Space Exposition, Hanwha Defense USA and Magnet Defense announced a strategic partnership to develop and potentially manufacture medium unmanned surface vessels (MUSVs) for the U.S. military and allied forces.

Under a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), the companies will focus on a next-generation 38-meter MUSV platform integrating advanced AI-driven autonomy. The cooperation also covers the development of robotic shipyard concepts and next-generation software aimed at enhancing vessel autonomy and operational flexibility.

Combining industrial capacity with autonomy expertise

According to Michael Coulter, CEO of Hanwha Defense USA, the initiative aligns with the company’s long-term strategy:

- Hanwha remains committed to fielding the most capable and lethal MUSVs to support American warfighters and other allies in times of conflict. By partnering with Magnet Defense, Hanwha can utilize its manufacturing capacity and advanced robotics and pair these capabilities with Magnet Defense’s proven autonomy and technology.

Marc Bell, CEO of Magnet Defense, emphasized the operational synergy of the partnership:

- Hanwha’s advanced missile systems, coupled with Magnet Defense’s designed-and-built MUSVs, make for a powerful combination. Our ability to project force globally by working together in quick response to America’s Armed Forces needs is critical in today’s ever-changing environment.

M48 platform demonstrates long-range autonomous capability

A key reference point for Magnet Defense’s capabilities is its M48 MUSV, a platform with a reported range of approximately 17,000 nautical miles. The vessel has already completed extensive sea trials, including a round-trip voyage from Miami to American Samoa, transiting the Panama Canal and operating in high sea states. These demonstrations underscore the increasing maturity of autonomous technologies in blue-water environments.

MUSVs gaining traction in future naval force structures

From an industry perspective, the Hanwha–Magnet Defense collaboration reflects a broader shift toward distributed and unmanned naval capabilities. MUSVs are increasingly viewed as force multipliers, complementing crewed platforms by offering lower unit costs, scalable deployment, and reduced risk to personnel.

Developmental stage and remaining challenges

Despite the strategic intent, the program remains at a conceptual and development stage. The integration of fully autonomous systems into operational naval frameworks continues to face technical, regulatory, and doctrinal challenges. Nevertheless, the partnership signals continued momentum behind unmanned surface vessel programs as a core component of future maritime operations.