A push to strengthen maritime autonomy in defense is taking shape in the US, as Hanwha Defense USA and Magnet Defense partner to develop a medium uncrewed surface vessel (MUSV).
Under a Memorandum of Understanding signed at the 2026 Sea-Air-Space event, the companies will jointly shape a 38-meter (125-foot) vessel and its operational capabilities.
Work also includes the development of AI-driven robotic shipyards and collaboration on advanced AI software for integration into the MUSV.
“Hanwha remains committed to fielding the most capable and lethal MUSVs to support American warfighters and other allies in times of conflict,” said Michael Coulter, chief executive officer of Hanwha Defense USA.
“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.”
Setting the Standard
Magnet Defense already fields an MUSV claimed to have the longest range in the world, which may have helped drive the new partnership.
Its M48 vessel can reach speeds of up to 68 knots (126 kilometers/78 miles per hour) and boasts a range of 17,000 nautical miles (31,484 kilometers/19,563 miles).
Also equipped with AI, it can detect and classify threats and match them to potential responses, while human operators retain control over critical decisions.
The MUSV supports a range of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, missile defense support, electronic warfare, logistics, and anti-submarine warfare.
Designed with a modular architecture, the M48 enables rapid mission reconfiguration, faster turnaround at bases, and extended deployment cycles — capabilities likely to be carried over into the upcoming MUSV.
