AUVSI and KOTRA Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen U.S.-Korea Collaboration in Uncrewed Systems

June 22, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing autonomy, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) to strengthen cooperation and support the continued growth of the global uncrewed systems ecosystem. 

Signed in Washington, D.C., in conjunction with the Korea-U.S. Defense Industry Cooperation Forum, the agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing trusted autonomy, strengthening supply chain resilience, and fostering greater collaboration between U.S. and Korean industry stakeholders. 

Through the partnership, AUVSI and KOTRA will work together to increase awareness of U.S. market requirements, facilitate information exchange on uncrewed systems technologies and certification pathways, and support educational and industry engagement activities that help companies navigate evolving commercial and government opportunities. 

“Trusted autonomy requires trusted partnerships,” said Michael Robbins, President and CEO of AUVSI. “As uncrewed systems become increasingly critical to economic competitiveness, national security, and supply chain resilience, international collaboration is essential. This agreement with KOTRA will help strengthen connections between the U.S. and Korean autonomy ecosystems while supporting greater understanding of the standards, cybersecurity requirements, and market pathways that enable trusted technology adoption.” 

The collaboration will include information sharing, industry education, and exploration of joint activities such as workshops, and other forums designed to connect stakeholders and promote dialogue on emerging technologies, certification frameworks, and market developments. 

The partnership comes at a time of growing interest in trusted drone and autonomous systems across both commercial and government markets. As demand for secure, resilient, and NDAA-compliant technologies continues to increase, industry stakeholders are seeking greater clarity around cybersecurity, supply chain integrity, and certification requirements. 

“AUVSI has long worked to build pathways that accelerate the adoption of trusted autonomous systems while strengthening the industrial base,” Robbins added. “By expanding engagement with international partners that share these objectives, we can help ensure innovation, security, and market access advance together.” 

Kang Kyung-sung, President of KOTRA, said, “Through the signing of this MOU with AUVSI, a globally recognized authority in the field of uncrewed systems, I hope that the innovative technologies and unique capabilities of Korean drone companies will become more closely connected to the vast U.S. market. I also hope that the cooperation between our two organizations will serve as a catalyst for leading the future of uncrewed technologies and for building a stable, mutually beneficial global supply chain. Through this partnership, I look forward to creating new opportunities for growth and strengthening the global competitiveness of our industries.” 

About AUVSI 

The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of uncrewed systems, robotics, and autonomy. AUVSI represents leaders from industry, government, and academia committed to accelerating innovation and advancing the safe, secure, and trusted integration of autonomous technologies across air, ground, maritime, and space domains.