VARD, a subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group, on Monday (26 January) presented results of the research and innovation project NuProShip II.
NuProShip II marked a significant milestone in the development of sustainable marine technology, exploring the integration of small 4th generation nuclear reactors into specialised offshore vessels.
The groundbreaking project NuProShip II, short for “Nuclear Propulsion in merchant Shipping” demonstrated the technical feasibility of nuclear-powered dynamically positioned (DP) vessels, researching the possibility of nuclear reactors contributing to efficiency, reliability, and environmental responsibility for the maritime industry.
VARD, the Norwegian subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group, has recently finalised one of their main contributions to the NuProShip II project; the development of a concept design for a nuclear-powered construction vessel based on an existing VARD reference concept. The study investigates the feasibility of integrating a helium gas-cooled nuclear reactor as the primary power source and evaluates its implications for vessel layout, safety, and overall system performance.
The case study is led by Vard Design and conducted in close cooperation with DNV, Emerald Nuclear, Vard Electro, offshore ship owner Island Offshore, and the project leader and our long-term research & innovation partner Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).
The NuProShip II project proves that the technology on nuclear-powered ships is moving forward, and that VARD – as a part of the Fincantieri Group, and together with the partners in the project – are frontrunners in finding the best solutions through tangible innovation.
The study confirmed that, with validated assumptions and supplier data, nuclear-powered DP vessels are achievable. The integration aligns with the high redundancy required for DP2 power architecture, with possibility to also adapt to DP3 requirements, enhancing operational safety and reliability.
By leveraging advanced reactor concepts, NuProShip II offers the potential for removal of greenhouse gas emissions and extended operations. The project also explores innovative energy storage solutions, such as super-critical CO₂ turbines and thermal battery systems, which could provide power balancing alternatives to conventional electrical batteries.
NuProShip II aims to set new standards for radiological safety and risk management in commercial shipping.
The project will be concluded in 2026 and followed by the SFI SAINT (Sustainable Applied and Industrialised Nuclear Technology) – centre for research-based innovation led by NTNU, where VARD will be one of the key partners.
The national center has received NOK 96 million in funding from the Research Council of Norway to research maritime nuclear technology. In-kind contributions from industry, including Vard, amount to about NOK 200 million. The center will operate for eight years starting in January 2026.
Photo credit: Vard
Published: 30 January, 2026
