South Korea has introduced an on-device artificial intelligence (AI) “staff officer” aboard a Pohang-class warship to help crew members access technical information and operational guidance for onboard equipment. Developed by South Korean physical AI company MakinaRocks, the system functions as a digital reference assistant, enabling personnel to quickly retrieve equipment procedures, technical manuals, and maintenance guidelines without manually searching through extensive documentation. The initiative aims to address knowledge gaps and improve operational efficiency as declining military manpower and the increasing complexity of naval platforms, which contain hundreds of equipment systems, create additional challenges for shipboard operations and maintenance.
