The Korean telco will partner with compatriot defense firm Hanwha Systems
South Korean telecom operator KT and compatriot aerospace and defense firm Hanwha Systems are set to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to start cooperation in applying internet of things (IoT) capabilities in the defense industry, local press reported. According to the reports, both companies will sign the IoT cooperation agreement next week.
KT is South Korea’s largest fixed-line internet operator and the country’s second-largest mobile carrier. Under the terms of the agreement, IoT capabilities could be applied in developing next generation systems such as “smart soldiers” who would wear sensor-based combat uniforms and wearable computers to carry out network-centric warfare.
High-tech solutions involving IoT could also be used in a smart recruit management system, which would operate by attaching devices to the wrists of soldiers that automatically transmit information such as location, training duration and progress, in real time to instructors.
The wearable devices could be used to evaluate the physical condition of each soldier by providing data including temperature, and pulse. Such a system would help prevent unexpected accidents as it will help detect signs of ill health in soldiers in advance.
Last month, Hanwha Systems, in cooperation with state-run science research university Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), launched a project to co-develop AI technologies to be applied to military weapons. KT is also making efforts in the AI field with its recent announcement of the development of an AI-based platform for fixed-line and wireless network operations.
Hanwha Systems also recently formed a task force team to focus on the development of hardware and software for smart factories. Hanwha Techwin, the group’s defence and aircraft engine unit, will initially elaborate a pilot model in automating factories that would be applied to other manufacturing subsidiaries.
Hanwha aims to develop its own smart platforms to improve production and efficiency of its own facilities and possibly market the smart factory solutions in a later phase, according to the reports.
In related news, South Korea’s science ministry unveiled plans to launch a project to develop smart life jackets.
The smart devices can send the location data of the wearer in case of an accident at sea, the ministry said. The life jackets will be embedded with telecom modules that send location data to rescuers.
The project is part of South Korea’s efforts to develop smart devices for police, firefighters and emergency personnel, as well as social workers.
