Transportation Department Seeks Industry Input on Nuclear-Powered Cargo Ships

The Maritime Administration on May 7 issued a request for information seeking industry proposals for small modular nuclear reactors in commercial cargo vessels and port operations. The notice states that global competitors are already integrating nuclear propulsion into shipyards and supply chains, and that the United States could face a strategic disadvantage without domestic deployment.

The agency said it wants reactor concepts treated as commercial infrastructure rather than technology demonstrations, with clear pathways to scalable operations. It added that such systems could allow ships to travel farther while lowering fuel and maintenance costs, and that proposals should address domestic supply-chain and logistics goals.

The Maritime Administration said it is working with the U.S. Coast Guard, Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Department of Energy to evaluate regulatory frameworks for nuclear-powered vessels. The agency is also seeking input on liability, insurance and inspection requirements needed for port operations.