Hanwha Systems to Localize Cockpit-Style IBS, Enabling Two-Person Operation of Large Warships

Navigation, combat and control functions integrated into one system
Warship automation and unmanned operations technologies also secured

Hanwha Systems is set to localize a next-generation integrated bridge system (IBS) that will allow two people to operate a large warship. The technology integrates navigation, combat, propulsion and control functions, which were previously handled by multiple crew members, into a single cockpit to minimize the personnel needed to operate a vessel.

Cockpit-style integrated bridge system (IBS) mockup by Hanwha Systems.

Hanwha Systems said on November 2 that it had won a contract to develop “Smart Bridge Operating Technology Using a Cockpit System,” a project led by the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement. The project runs through 2030. Hanwha Systems will handle everything from manufacturing the consoles, the hardware for the cockpit-style IBS, to developing integrated operating software.

The cockpit-style IBS is a bridge system designed to let operators view all the information needed to operate a warship at a glance and centrally control its key functions, much like an aircraft cockpit. Its key feature is enabling at least two people to perform in one space the navigation, combat, propulsion and control functions previously handled by multiple crew members in the bridge, combat information center and engine control room.

The system will incorporate four core technologies: the IBS, combat management system (CMS), integrated engineering control system (ECS) and unmanned system (UMS). All were developed in-house by Hanwha Systems and are designed to enable the integrated management of a warship’s navigation, combat operations and engineering functions through a single system.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies will also be applied. Maritime situational awareness visualization and data-driven collision avoidance technologies will help a warship analyze its surroundings, calculate collision risks and select an appropriate evasive route. Existing analog control panels will also be digitized to make better use of space and reduce operator fatigue.

Hanwha Systems previously succeeded in localizing the combat management system, which serves as a warship’s brain, and the integrated engineering control system, which serves as its heart. The company plans to develop the cockpit-style IBS, which connects the two systems, and thereby secure all three of the warship’s core operating systems.

“Winning the cockpit-style IBS contract means we have secured all the core technologies for warship automation and unmanned operations,” said Yoo Moon-ki, head of Hanwha Systems’ Naval Business Division. “We will address the Navy’s immediate challenges of a shrinking manpower pool and crew shortages, and secure the key technologies needed to lead the future era of unmanned warships.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.