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Nvidia, Kawasaki Partner on AI-Powered Shipyard Transformation

Nvidia and Kawasaki Heavy Industries are establishing a joint digital shipyard at Kawasaki's Sakaide Works in Japan. This marks a significant push to automate vessel construction. The partnership will co-develop artificial intelligence-powered robots for welding, painting, inspection, and material handling operations. Nvidia contributes its AI and simulation capabilities, including digital twin technology and edge computing applications, while Kawasaki provides decades of shipbuilding expertise and robotics infrastructure. Nvidia is making a $5 million investment as part of the arrangement. The collaboration aims to address persistent labor shortages in global shipbuilding, particularly in U.S. and Japanese yards. AI-guided robots designed to handle complex, low-volume customized work could reduce lead times, improve quality control, and lower production costs. Simulation-based training is expected to help transfer critical skills as experienced workers retire.