Rolls-Royce has entered into two new trilateral cooperation agreements with the UK National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA).
The partnerships focus on advancing next-generation nuclear technologies in the UK. The goal is to accelerate the development of advanced reactors and the fuel systems that support them.
The agreements bring together expertise from the UK and Japan in nuclear science and engineering. They build on existing collaborations between Rolls-Royce and UKNNL, as well as between UKNNL and JAEA. A formal signing ceremony is scheduled to take place at 10 Downing Street during the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Advanced Modular Reactors and Fuel Development
The three organizations will work together on High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Advanced Modular Reactors(AMRs).
These reactors are smaller than traditional nuclear power plants and are designed to be built in modules, enabling faster, more flexible deployment. They can provide reliable electricity and heat for industrial sites, remote locations, defence applications, and other energy-intensive operations.
The partnership will also focus on developing Coated Particle Fuel (CPF), a key technology used in these reactors. CPF contains tiny uranium particles that are protected by multiple layers of specialized materials. These protective layers help the fuel remain stable and safe even under extreme operating conditions.
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Advanced Modular Reactors differ from conventional large nuclear plants in both size and design. They are intended to offer greater flexibility while maintaining high safety standards. Their compact design also makes them suitable for locations where large-scale nuclear facilities may not be practical.
Supporting Energy Security and Economic Growth
The announcement comes as the UK increases its focus on nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy. The UK’s independent Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce recently identified nuclear technology as an important contributor to economic growth, energy security, and national defence. Strengthening domestic nuclear capabilities has become a key priority as countries seek stable low-carbon energy sources.
Rolls-Royce said the collaboration will help address technical challenges and accelerate the path toward commercial deployment of advanced reactors. The company also sees the project as an opportunity to create highly skilled jobs and support industrial growth. The initiative further strengthens cooperation between the UK and Japan in clean energy and advanced technology development.
Chris Cholerton, Group President of Rolls-Royce, said the agreements represent an important step for the UK’s nuclear sector.
He said that combining the expertise of all three organizations will help accelerate reactor and fuel development while supporting energy security and economic growth. He also highlighted the value of strengthening long-standing nuclear partnerships between the two nations.
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Building a Complete Nuclear Ecosystem
Rolls-Royce is already expanding its nuclear business through its Small Modular Reactor (SMR) program. The company was recently selected in the Great British Energy–Nuclear process and is now exploring additional opportunities in the Advanced Modular Reactor market. While the AMR and SMR programs use different reactor technologies and power outputs, both rely on modular construction methods designed to improve efficiency and delivery certainty.
Beyond technology development, the three organizations aim to strengthen the wider nuclear industry. Their cooperation includes supporting workforce development, expanding access to research facilities, and encouraging innovation across the sector. These efforts are intended to ensure the UK maintains the expertise and infrastructure needed for future nuclear projects.
The new partnership highlights growing international cooperation in advanced nuclear energy. As countries seek dependable low-carbon power sources, the work carried out by Rolls-Royce, UKNNL, and JAEA is expected to play an important role in shaping the next generation of nuclear energy systems.
