South Korea is testing whether one of its sailors of the future could be a humanoid robot.
Official footage showed “PIBOT” taking the helm of a vessel during a simulation, demonstrating a new form of human-machine teaming for the Republic of Korea Navy.
Developed by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), the robot uses multiple cameras to read instruments and monitor its surroundings.
PIBOT is also integrated with a large language model that allows it to absorb technical manuals and aviation charts. KAIST claims it can store the complete worldwide collection of Jeppesen navigation charts in its memory.
Originally developed to pilot aircraft, the humanoid robot stands more than 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall and weighs around 65 kilograms (143 pounds).
It is designed to fit inside existing cockpits and operate the same switches and controls as a human pilot without requiring modifications to the aircraft.
Behind the Trial
KAIST demonstrated PIBOT with the Navy Education and Training Command, marking the robot’s first test outside an aircraft cockpit.
During the trial, PIBOT repeated steering instructions from a bridge watch officer, operated the ship’s controls, and reported back after completing each command.
The setup kept humans firmly in control, with the robot confirming every order before acting to reduce the risk of miscommunication.
The navy tested PIBOT in simulated narrow passages, rough seas, and nighttime conditions, placing the robot in scenarios where steering errors could have serious consequences.
The experiment is reportedly the first stage of a four-part program expected to culminate in PIBOT taking the helm of an operational warship at sea.
