Washington turns to nuclear power in shipbuilding revival

The United States Maritime Administration has entered into a formal cooperation agreement with CORE POWER to facilitate the development of nuclear-powered commercial vessels under the American flag. According to Splash 247, the partnership aims to overcome longstanding barriers that have previously limited nuclear propulsion technology to military applications. While the agreement does not involve direct financial commitments or vessel procurement by the government, it seeks to address regulatory and operational hurdles. This initiative aligns with a broader strategy by the Trump administration to revitalize domestic maritime capabilities in response to international competition. CORE POWER CEO Mikal Bøe noted that foreign competitors are already pursuing nuclear merchant ships, stating that this reality "should focus minds in Washington." The proposed model involves utilizing allied shipyards in Japan and South Korea for hull construction, while focusing nuclear integration and lifecycle support within the United States. The collaboration will establish a framework to tackle complex issues including reactor fueling, insurance, port access, and workforce training. This movement coincides with international efforts to update maritime safety codes for nuclear vessels by 2030. Additionally, other industry leaders are exploring similar paths, with Maersk reportedly preparing to investigate a transatlantic nuclear shipping corridor between the United Kingdom and the United States.