Britain advances towards nuclear-powered surface warships
There has been an update on the Royal Navy’s effort to explore nuclear-powered surface ships, building on its earlier Request for Information (RFI) issued last year.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has now invited industrial stakeholders to a workshop at Navy Command HQ in Portsmouth on 20 February 2025 to discuss th0e feasibility and strategic vision for a novel nuclear-powered navy.
According to the updated notice, “This will be an opportunity for the Royal Navy to engage with industrial stakeholders on a novel Nuclear Surface Fleet then seek industry’s view on investigating a plausible strategic vision for a novel nuclear navy focusing on the operational advantages and feasibility of nuclear technology in naval surface applications.”
The workshop will focus on validating concepts, identifying research questions, and laying the groundwork for further research and development.
The workshop is limited to 50 attendees and is open to industry stakeholders only, with no press or public participation permitted.
The MOD, in the announcement, made clear that this engagement does not constitute a pre-qualification exercise, stating, “Any formal procurement process will be undertaken in accordance with the relevant Procurement Law. Nothing in the event shall be construed as a representation as to the Authoritys ultimate decision in relation to any future requirement.”
This workshop is a continuation of the Royal Navy’s broader exploration of nuclear technologies for surface ships, initiated with the September 2024 RFI. That RFI sought insights from the defence industry about integrating Generation 4 nuclear reactors into the fleet. The focus was on understanding how advanced reactors—such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)—could improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance operational capabilities.
The MOD asked industry leaders to provide detailed technical information on reactor designs, power output, safety features, and lifecycle sustainability assessments. The RFI also explored the feasibility of integrating nuclear power into existing and future ship designs, as well as the potential implications for training, crewing, and maintenance.
These advanced technologies, designed to be safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly, represent a significant evolution from traditional reactors. They also offer the potential to extend operational range and reduce logistical dependency on fuel supplies, a key advantage in modern naval operations.
While nuclear propulsion has been widely used in submarines, its application to surface ships—common in the U.S. and French navies—represents a new frontier for the UK. Nuclear-powered carriers, such as the U.S. Navy’s Gerald R. Ford-class and France’s Charles de Gaulle, showcase the strategic advantages of extended operational endurance and reduced fuel reliance.
Despite the Royal Navy’s extensive use of nuclear propulsion in its submarines, including the Vanguard and Astute classes, its surface fleet remains conventionally powered.
Call to Industry
The workshop aims to gather further insights from industry experts on the integration of nuclear technologies. Discussions will focus on:
Feasibility of using Generation 4 nuclear reactors in surface ships.
Safety and regulatory considerations.
Environmental and sustainability challenges.
Implications for ship design, crewing, and maintenance.
Participants are required to RSVP by 31 January 2025, with detailed instructions to follow for successful applicants.
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