SK On Pursues Defense Batteries For AI Vehicles
SEOUL, Feb. 4 — South Korean battery maker SK On is in talks with a U.S. defense firm to supply batteries for AI-powered unmanned underwater vehicles and has approached a European defense company about eVTOL batteries, industry sources said. SK On is supplying cells for a Hyundai Rotem unmanned vehicle project and plans to prioritize high-density ternary NCM batteries short-term while exploring all-solid-state options long-term, with supplies expected after 2028.
Key Points
- 1Negotiates battery supply for AI-powered unmanned underwater vehicles and eVTOL platforms with U.S. and European defense firms
- 2Targets high-density ternary NCM now and evaluates all-solid-state batteries for long-term defense stability
- 3Signals commercial defense opportunities after 2028, requiring extended safety verification and longer deployment timelines
Scoring Rationale
Credible industry development signaling strategic diversification; limited novelty and long verification timelines constrain near-term impact.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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