Seoul: South Korea’s Hanwha Group has joined hands with the United States defense startup Vatn Systems to develop a new generation of underwater drones for the US Navy. The cooperation marks a major push by both countries to strengthen undersea security as global tensions continue to rise.
The partnership follows Hanwha’s investment in Vatn earlier this year as part of a funding round worth 60 million dollars. Vatn is a young company founded in 2023 and has already gained attention for its low cost autonomous underwater drones. These drones are shaped like torpedoes and cost about 75000 dollars each. They can be used for surveillance and in combat situations.
Vatn has secured close to 20 million dollars in defense contracts during this year alone. Its technology focuses on underwater navigation that works even when GPS and communication signals are weak. This is one of the biggest challenges in unmanned undersea systems.
Hanwha has been expanding its defense capabilities and is already working on large underwater vehicles for the South Korean military. By teaming up with Vatn in the United States the company is stepping deeper into the fast growing field of autonomous naval technology.
The US Navy has been increasing its interest in unmanned ships and underwater drones. The aim is to build a fleet that is cheaper to operate and safer for personnel. This has gained greater urgency as countries like China expand their naval presence in the Pacific.
Experts say underwater drones may one day play a central role in maritime security. They can move quietly gather intelligence and even block enemy vessels. However the technology is still developing and the US Navy has faced delays in earlier unmanned programs.
The Hanwha and Vatn partnership will begin building the drones in the United States. Both companies say the project supports not only defense goals but also growing cooperation between the two allies.
The move comes at a time when many nations are racing to improve their underwater capabilities. Analysts warn that the rapid progress could lead to greater competition in the region especially in waters around China and Taiwan.
Despite these concerns the new collaboration is seen as an important step for both countries as they prepare for the future of naval defense.