UK Royal Navy considering nuclear powered warships

Source: paximperia

4 Comments

  1. Building warships are never cheap. Making nuclear powered ship will mean the cost to build will go up compared to conventionally powered warships.

    Even US Navy limit nuclear powered to fleet carrier and submarines but US can at least afford it at immense cost.

  2. >**The RFI signals the Royal Navy’s interest in understanding how Generation 4 nuclear reactors might be integrated into its fleet.**

    >The MOD has emphasised that this RFI is not a tender but a way to gather information from industry leaders. The request is being conducted in line with the Defence and Security Industrial Strategy (DSIS), which seeks to foster productive relationships with defence and security industries.

    >The MOD states that any future procurement will comply with relevant legislation, but it clarifies, “No more further discussions with industry are planned at this stage. In the event of any future procurement activity, it would be advertised in line with public procurement regulations on the Defence Sourcing Portal and Contracts Finder.”

    >The Royal Navy is specifically looking into the possibility of using Generation 4 nuclear technologies, including both larger nuclear reactors and micro modular reactors, for powering large surface ships.

    >The RFI highlights the need for detailed technical information, stating, “The Royal Navy (RN) is seeking information regarding integrating Generation-4 nuclear technologies for surface ship employment. Exploring scopes for alternative energy paradigms, the Royal Navy is gathering information on energy solutions for powering large surface ships.”

    >Generation 4 nuclear technologies are the next generation of advanced reactors designed to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability compared to older models. These reactors focus on reducing nuclear waste, using fuel more efficiently, and incorporating passive safety systems to prevent accidents.

    >A key feature is the development of smaller, modular designs like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are more flexible and can be deployed in a wider range of settings, including for naval applications. These reactors also aim to reduce the environmental impact of nuclear power while maintaining high operational performance.

    >The RFI goes on to explain the objective of the information-gathering exercise: “The primary objective is to gather detailed information on GEN-4 nuclear-reactor designs, their feasibility for large surface ships (including support vessels and surface combatants), and the potential benefits and challenges associated with their use.”

    >The MOD is particularly interested in understanding the technical feasibility of integrating nuclear power into existing and future naval vessels, as well as the operational implications this might have.

    >In addition to technical feasibility, the RFI requests information on several key areas. These include detailed technical specifications of Generation 4 reactors suitable for maritime use, their power output, and safety protocols.

    >The MOD asks for “Detailed descriptions of Generation-4 nuclear reactor designs suitable for maritime applications,” as well as information on “power output, efficiency, and operational parameters.” Safety features are also a primary concern, with the document seeking information on “safety features and protocols inherent to Generation 4 reactors.”

    >Beyond technical details, the MOD is also exploring how these reactors could be integrated into ship designs. The RFI asks for responses addressing “requirements for integrating Generation-4 reactors into the design and construction of large surface ships.” This includes how modifications to existing ship designs would be required to accommodate nuclear power systems, as well as the research questions that need to be addressed to make these technologies viable for naval use.

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