HII Partners with Path Robotics for AI Welding

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a significant move to enhance shipbuilding efficiency, HII and Path Robotics have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the integration of advanced AI welding technology into shipbuilding operations. The agreement, finalized at Path Robotics’ headquarters, aims to boost production capabilities and strengthen the maritime workforce. HII’s executive vice president, Eric Chewning, and Path Robotics CEO, Andy Lonsberry, were present at the signing ceremony, marking a pivotal step in modernizing defense manufacturing.

Transforming Shipbuilding with AI Technology

The partnership between HII and Path Robotics focuses on developing autonomous welding capabilities that could significantly enhance shipbuilding throughput. Chewning expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting that HII’s shipbuilding throughput increased by 14% in 2025, with a target of an additional 15% growth in 2026. He emphasized that integrating Path’s AI technology could further accelerate production while maintaining high-quality standards required by the U.S. Navy.

As part of the MOU, both companies will explore opportunities in three key areas: developing autonomous shipbuilding capabilities, training a workforce to support automation, and establishing an intellectual property framework for AI-based welding systems. The collaboration aims to integrate Path’s AI models with existing shipbuilding technologies, including HII’s ROMULUS line of unmanned surface vehicles. This integration is expected to automate structural production and enhance the welding workforce, ultimately contributing to national security objectives.

HII Partners with Path Robotics to Revolutionize Shipbuilding

Lonsberry highlighted the significance of partnering with HII, the largest military shipbuilder in the U.S., especially during a critical period for national defense and manufacturing. He noted that welding is one of the most challenging processes to automate, and Path’s physical AI is designed to adapt to real-world conditions in real time. The collaboration aims to modernize defense manufacturing and fortify the naval industrial base for the future.

Prior to the MOU signing, attendees toured the Path Robotics factory, witnessing robotic welding demonstrations that showcased the technology’s potential for naval fabrication. The demonstrations illustrated how Path’s autonomous welding systems can adapt to various shipyard conditions, including fit variations and complex joint types. Currently, HII relies on traditional automated welders that require human collaboration, but the introduction of AI-driven autonomous welding technology could expand shipbuilding capacity and enhance the skilled workforce needed to meet the U.S. Navy’s increasing demands.