Makinarocks said on Monday it has installed an AI-based “equipment operations AI staff” on the Navy First Fleet Command’s Pohang ship and has begun trial operations.

The project was 추진 as part of the “Defence Innovation Companies 100 dedicated support programme for technology development” overseen by the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT). It aims to reduce information gaps stemming from differences in service members’ proficiency, in response to changes in force structure due to declining military manpower resources and the high difficulty of operating and maintaining shipboard equipment.

Makinarocks developed the equipment operations AI staff by applying an AI agent framework based on its AI operating system, Runway. The system was trained on naval gun technical manuals and maintenance materials, among other sources.

A key feature is a lightweight, on-device AI operating environment designed for ships’ closed networks, where external network connections are limited. It supports service members by helping them quickly check information needed during equipment operation and use relevant manuals and guidelines.

After being installed on the Pohang ship, the equipment operations AI staff was confirmed to be operating normally, and a demonstration was also completed for key officials including the commander of the Navy First Fleet. Makinarocks plans to continue operating the system on an actual ship to verify on-site applicability and to refine the system by incorporating feedback.

Based on the trial results, the Navy will review ways to expand the scope of application to various ships and defence areas.

Makinarocks also plans to broaden the application of the technology to various weapons systems and equipment across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Makinarocks Chief Executive Yoon Sung-ho (윤성호) said, “This demonstration on the Pohang ship is meaningful in that it confirmed AI technology can provide practical support for weapons system operation even in a ship’s closed network and on-device environment.” He added, “We will actively reflect on-site opinions to improve the military’s convenience in equipment operation and continue developing physical AI technology that can support the advancement of defence capabilities.”