South Korean Ship HCX-23 Plus Bets on AI and Drones to Redefine the Future of Naval Warfare (X @mason_8718)
South Korea unveiled the concept of a new drone carrier ship called HCX-23 Plus at the maritime defense expo MADEX 2025, held in Busan.
Developed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the project is designed to operate autonomously with artificial intelligence support and stands out for its futuristic and stealth-focused design, featuring faceted surfaces and coating that makes detection difficult.
The vessel lacks a traditional command island, freeing up space for operations with various types of aerial drones.
The HCX-23 Plus has two distinct areas on the deck: one for launching and recovering fixed-wing drones, and another for VTOL drones that take off and land vertically. The ship’s sides suggest the presence of modular compartments or vertical launch systems, enhancing its versatility in combat.
The proposal reinforces South Korea’s goal to establish itself as a naval power focused on unmanned technologies and modern drone-based warfare.
The ship is expected to perform surveillance missions, rapid attacks, and electronic warfare with minimal human supervision, thanks to integration with autonomous systems and AI tools. The model is still conceptual, with no plans for mass production or price information available.
However, it could serve as a basis for the future of autonomous naval platforms in defense operations worldwide.
Source: TecMundo | Photo: X @mason_8718 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
South Korean mega shipbuilding company Hyundai Heavy Industries unveiled some models at MADEX. Dedicated drone carrier, ‘HCX-25 Plus’ and 6,500-ton class export type of the frigate, ‘HDF-6000’.
I should call this destroyer.
More details will be revealed after the 28th.
South… pic.twitter.com/Alm9O2ex1l— Mason ヨンハク (@mason_8718) May 26, 2025
