Hybrid nuclear power gains approval

The concept enables nuclear micro modular reactors (MMR) to be integrated with conventional diesel-electric systems on board 73-metre and 90-metre amphibious stern landing vessel (SLV) designs.

“Achieving approval in principle for hybrid nuclear power is an exciting step for LR and the wider maritime industry,” said Jez Sims, technical authority for nuclear at Lloyd’s Register.

“Our role is to help the industry move forward with confidence – turning pioneering ideas into safe, practical solutions.”

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The AiP follows several years of collaboration between the two companies to demonstrate how licensable MMR technology can be safely combined with proven propulsion systems to reduce fuel dependence and emissions while extending operational endurance.

A recently launched 73m SLV served as the trial platform. Sea trials of the conventionally powered vessel validated the performance assumptions underpinning the nuclear-ready concept, providing technical assurance that the hybrid design is practical and robust.

Seatransport’s SLV platform has more than 25 years of operational history. By incorporating hybrid nuclear capability, the vessels could achieve effectively unlimited range, significantly lower reliance on conventional fuels, and enhanced endurance for sustained missions — particularly in remote or undeveloped coastal environments. The company’s chief executive, Stuart Ballantyne has hailed the AiP as a ‘a paradigm shift in marine technology greater than sail to steam’.

The MMRs under consideration range from 1.2 MW to 2.6 MW and remain subject to detailed technical and regulatory assessment.

LR is working with national authorities to address safety, compliance and operational standards, with broader adoption anticipated in the early 2030s.

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