Since June 2026, three approvals in principle (AiPs) have been granted for nuclear-powered commercial vessels, including a container ship with molten salt reactors developed by a Korean consortium, a Lloyd’s Register-supported car carrier, and a reactor design from the MIT Maritime Consortium. However, these approvals do not indicate that any ships are close to being docked in ports. An AiP signifies that a design is technically sound based on existing safety standards but does not permit construction or operations. This is particularly significant in nuclear propulsion, as the relevant safety codes are outdated.
Among the recent projects, one notable AiP was granted to a 15,000 TEU container ship concept involving South Korean institutions and Samsung Heavy Industries, which utilizes molten salt reactors. Another project focuses on a car and truck carrier, modified to accommodate a reactor. The MIT consortium’s reactor design uses a synthetic heat-transfer fluid, promising modular construction advantages. Despite these developments, all projects remain in the conceptual phase, lacking construction or regulatory approvals.
Past attempts at commercial nuclear shipping have encountered challenges. For example, the NS Savannah, launched in 1962, was not economically viable, while Germany’s NS Otto Hahn faced extensive port entry negotiations. Japan’s NS Mutsu had significant operational issues leading to public backlash. Today, the only operational nuclear cargo ship, Russia’s Sevmorput, also faced entry obstacles initially.
The existing international framework for nuclear-powered vessels remains inadequate, lacking a comprehensive liability regime. While the U.S. is making strides in regulatory groundwork, with agencies collaborating to explore advanced nuclear technologies, essential elements like liability frameworks and public acceptance remain unresolved. Transitioning from AiP to operational status demands extensive regulatory, engineering, and community acceptance measures, all of which are still pending for the newly approved concepts.
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