The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (Kaeri) and Samsung Heavy Industries have achieved a major milestone by securing the world’s first Approval in Principle (AIP) for an LNG carrier powered by a small modular salt reactor (MSR). This groundbreaking certification was announced at Gastech 2025 in Milan, marking a pivotal step in advancing maritime drive technology.
The certification, issued by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Liberian Flag State, is a critical precursor to the development of the ship. Dr. Jin-Young Cho, Director of the Advanced Reactor Research Institute, emphasized the project’s commitment to fostering carbon neutrality in the maritime sector through the innovative MSR.
This reactor technology utilizes molten salt as a liquid nuclear fuel, providing enhanced safety and energy efficiency for maritime applications. Notably, the 100 MWTH capacity MSR is designed to operate throughout the ship’s lifespan without the need for fuel replacement, a significant advantage in longevity.
Initiated in 2023, this joint project is supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Oceans and Fishing, with plans to complete the conceptual design of the Marine-MSR by 2026.
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