Siemens and HD Hyundai plan digital shipyard model

Key Takeaways

• Siemens and HD Hyundai have partnered to develop a digital shipyard model using Siemens Xcelerator
• The partnership aims to modernize shipbuilding operations, improve productivity, and support US maritime manufacturing
• The collaboration will combine HD Hyundai's shipbuilding experience with Siemens' industrial AI, engineering, manufacturing, simulation, and operations software
• The digital shipyard model will use various Siemens Xcelerator technologies, including Designcenter, Teamcenter, Opcenter, Plant Simulation, Simcenter, and Intelligence Center X

Introduction to the Partnership

Siemens and HD Hyundai have announced a significant nine-figure agreement, making Siemens a technology partner for HD Hyundai's next-generation shipbuilding and digitalization strategy. This long-term partnership aims to develop a repeatable digital shipyard model, leveraging Siemens Xcelerator to modernize shipbuilding operations, enhance productivity, and support US maritime manufacturing.

Combining Expertise for Digital Shipbuilding

The collaboration will combine HD Hyundai's extensive shipbuilding experience with Siemens' cutting-edge industrial AI, engineering, manufacturing, simulation, and operations software. This synergy is expected to improve production readiness, quality, rework reduction, and digital continuity across the shipbuilding lifecycle. The partnership is also aligned with HD Hyundai's broader investment strategy in the US, focusing on shipbuilding capacity, workforce readiness, and industrial resilience.

Creating a Scalable Digital Thread

The agreement builds on HD Hyundai's existing use of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio across its shipbuilding operations. The partners plan to create a scalable digital thread, connecting design, engineering, manufacturing, production planning, simulation, shipyard execution, and lifecycle management through a common digital backbone. This digital thread will enable seamless data exchange and collaboration throughout the shipbuilding process.

Joint Development and Commercialization

The companies intend to jointly develop and commercialize digital shipyard solutions for shipbuilders at various stages of digital maturity. These solutions will cater to both traditional shipyards pursuing modernization and naval and commercial programs seeking greater scale and efficiency. The collaboration will include work in the US, where public and private organizations are investing in maritime manufacturing and shipbuilding capacity.

Comparison of Digital Shipyard Solutions

Supporting the US Shipbuilding Industry

As part of the initiative, HD Hyundai and Siemens will support the launch of a US-Korea Shipbuilding Technology Cooperation Center in Washington, D.C. This center will facilitate collaboration among government, industry, and technology organizations on digital shipbuilding, providing a platform for modernization strategies, adoption of digital shipyard technologies, and workforce and industrial development initiatives.

Bottom Line

The partnership between Siemens and HD Hyundai marks a significant milestone in the digitalization of the shipbuilding industry. By combining their expertise and leveraging Siemens Xcelerator, the companies aim to create a repeatable digital shipyard model that enhances productivity, quality, and efficiency. With a focus on supporting the US maritime manufacturing and shipbuilding capacity, this collaboration is expected to have a lasting impact on the industry, driving innovation and growth in the years to come.