South Korean artificial intelligence (AI) company MakinaRocks is working with the Republic of Korea Navy’s (ROKN) 1st Fleet Command to develop a digital assistant that can help sailors operate and maintain ship equipment more efficiently.
The “AI Advisor” project, which runs for one year, is part of Seoul’s Defense Industry Innovation 100 program that seeks partnerships with military tech firms through funding, research, development, and consulting.
MakinaRocks’ AI system will run directly on ROKN’s naval ships, even in environments with limited connectivity or computing resources, according to local media.
How the AI ‘Crewmate’ Will Work
The system is being built around the company’s in-house AI engine known as Runway, along with a lightweight setup that allows large AI models to function on platforms with low processing capacity.
It will study equipment manuals, maintenance guides, and daily operation logs to provide quick, reliable recommendations for onboard decision-making.
By storing complex instructions in a smart database, the AI can instantly retrieve relevant answers and walk sailors through overhaul or troubleshooting steps — much like having a knowledgeable technician always on call.
The solution will also support weapons systems such as the Mk. 45 5-inch (13-centimeter) naval gun, helping newer sailors handle advanced equipment more safely.
“We will increase the speed of decision-making of crews and allow them to experience the utility of AI in actual fields through a system where AI provides complex operation manuals directly,” Edaily quoted Yoon Seong-ho, CEO of MakinaRocks.
