US and UK Outline Plans for Nuclear Powered Shipping and Floating Reactors

The United States and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under the Technology Prosperity Deal, with commitments to explore civil maritime nuclear applications. The agreement was formalized by US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

The MOU outlines cooperation on potential international standards for civil maritime nuclear technology, the possibility of establishing a maritime shipping corridor between the two countries, and measures to enhance energy resilience for defense facilities.

Civil maritime nuclear technology under consideration includes floating nuclear power plants and nuclear powered cargo vessels. Floating nuclear plants are designed to be shipyard assembled, deployable, and capable of supplying continuous electricity and industrial heat to coastal regions. Civilian nuclear powered cargo ships are being explored for their ability to operate with zero emissions, longer endurance, and greater cargo capacity.

Mikal Bøe, CEO of CORE POWER, said: “This agreement between two leading nuclear and maritime nations recognises the economic benefit of civil maritime nuclear and that 2025 is the year it begins to go mainstream. CORE POWER has established close partnerships in both countries to build reactors suitable for maritime use, shape the regulatory environment for rapid deployment, and engage the shipbuilding sector on vessel design.

“CORE POWER stands ready to complete development of the civil maritime nuclear sector alongside the US and UK Governments in a true public private partnership for our common economic success.”

CORE POWER Board Member and former Chief of US Naval Operations, Admiral (Ret.) John Richardson, added: “Our two nations have long had a special and mutually supportive relationship across all elements of national power. Now is the time for our combined expertise, industrial strength, and shared commitment to accelerate the deployment of safe, secure, and reliable new nuclear power in the maritime environment to strengthen our energy security and resilience.”