VARD, part of the Fincantieri Group, has outlined outcomes from NuProShip II in a release dated 26 January 2026 from Ålesund, Norway. The research and innovation work examined how small fourth-generation nuclear reactors could be integrated into specialised offshore vessels, and assessed the technical feasibility of nuclear-powered dynamic positioning operations in merchant shipping.
As a main contribution, VARD completed a concept design for a nuclear-propulsion construction vessel based on an existing reference concept. The study assessed integration of a helium gas-cooled reactor as the primary power source and reviewed impacts on layout, safety, and system performance.
The case work was led by Vard Design AS and carried out with DNV, Emerald Nuclear, Vard Electro, and offshore ship owner Island Offshore, alongside the project leader and long-term research partner NTNU. VARD’s project lead in design research, Henrik Burvang, said the work supports the development of safer and more efficient shipping, and noted the value of having an active shipowner-operator participating in the programme.
NuProShip II stated that, using validated assumptions and supplier data, nuclear-powered DP vessels are achievable. It found the integration aligns with redundancy needs for DP2 power architecture and could be adapted to DP3 requirements. The project also assessed power-balancing options beyond conventional electrical batteries, including super-critical CO₂ turbines and thermal battery systems, while aiming to set higher benchmarks for radiological safety and risk management in commercial shipping.
The project also flagged the need for a modern regulatory framework and more industrial experience in civilian nuclear marine propulsion, and highlighted public acceptance and environmental stewardship as key considerations. NuProShip II is a two-year initiative funded by the Research Council of Norway. The work is set to conclude in 2026 and be followed by the SFI SAINT centre led by NTNU, where VARD will be a key partner. The centre has NOK 96 million in funding, with in-kind industry contributions of about NOK 200 million, and will run for eight years starting in January 2026.
