Scientists at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) are developing two advanced nuclear reactor models with capacities of 55 MW and 200 MW, according to a report by ET Infra. While primarily intended for captive power generation in energy-intensive industries such as cement manufacturing, their compact design also makes them suitable for integration into marine vessels, marking a significant step toward nuclear-powered commercial shipping.
“Nuclear power is generated by causing nuclear fission to create heat, which in turn produces electricity. You can place the reactor wherever you need it—even on a ship,” a senior official was quoted as saying.
The development comes amid growing global interest in nuclear propulsion and small modular reactors (SMRs) for maritime use. In June, the IMO’s Marine Safety Committee (MSC 110) approved revisions to the SOLAS Convention, paving the way for emerging technologies such as SMRs to be incorporated into the regulatory framework for ship safety.
Leading maritime classification societies and organizations are also advancing the conversation. Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), highlighted nuclear energy’s transformative potential during both the ARGO: New Nuclear for Greek Maritime Summit and London International Shipping Week 2025, noting that “nuclear is no longer a distant prospect.”
Similarly, Lloyd’s Register (LR) has partnered with Deployable Energy to explore the safe integration of micro-nuclear reactors for ship propulsion and has issued a roadmap outlining the pathway toward adoption. Meanwhile, IACS and DNV have released reports assessing the opportunities, challenges, and regulatory pathways for deploying nuclear technology in commercial shipping.
Together, these initiatives underscore a shifting global mindset—positioning nuclear power as a credible and potentially game-changing solution for reducing emissions and enhancing operational efficiency in the maritime industry.
