ABS Approves MIT-Led Nuclear Reactor Integration for Cargo Ships

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Friday June 5, 2026

ABS has awarded approval in principle (AIP) for the integration of a nuclear reactor into a cargo vessel propulsion system developed through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Maritime Consortium.

The reactor design uses a synthetic fluid to transfer heat from the reactor core and operates at near-atmospheric pressure, potentially enabling lighter reactor vessels, modular construction and easier transport, ABS said in a statement issued on its website on Friday. 

Current concepts focus on micro-reactors with thermal outputs of 10-20 MW.

The project was developed by MIT in collaboration with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and Capital Maritime Group.

ABS said the approval is the first issued through the MIT Maritime Consortium, whose members are exploring technologies including nuclear propulsion, alternative fuels, autonomy and cybersecurity.

The AIP was granted under ABS's New Technology Qualification programme.

While nuclear energy has been used in naval vessels, its adoption in commercial shipping has been hindered by regulatory and safety concerns.

ABS is already involved in several projects aimed at promoting the use of nuclear technology in shipping.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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