Lloyd’s Register enters nuclear propulsion agreement with Australian vessel designer

Lloyd's Register and Queensland, Australia-based vessel design firm Seatransport have entered into an agreement for collaboration in equipping vessels with micro-modular reactors (MMRs).

Under this approval in principle (AIP), both parties will equip an MMR on Seatransport's proprietary amphibious stern landing vessel design, which is ideally suited for isolated nations and remote communities.

Seatransport said the approach helps avoid the high operating cost associated with imported diesel fuel while enabling regional capability for patrol, defence, and emergency response.

Seatransport founder Stuart Ballantyne had earlier stated that MMRs make ideal nuclear propulsion options for ships due to their lower cost and greater safety.