The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for the conceptual design of a 15,000 TEU nuclear-powered container ship, marking another step toward the development of advanced propulsion technologies for future commercial vessels.

The concept was developed by the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO) in cooperation with South Korean maritime technology partners. The vessel design utilizes Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology based on molten salt reactor systems to provide propulsion power, aiming to explore a low-carbon alternative for large ocean-going ships.

The proposed Neo-Panamax container ship is designed to accommodate 15,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) and operate at a service speed of around 25 knots. The design removes conventional fuel tanks and exhaust systems, allowing more efficient use of onboard space while potentially increasing cargo capacity.

ABS stated that the AiP confirms the technical feasibility of the concept based on its review of safety and design requirements. The approval supports further development of nuclear propulsion systems as the maritime industry continues to explore technologies that may contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Although nuclear propulsion has been widely used in naval vessels, its application in commercial shipping remains limited due to regulatory, safety, and operational challenges. Industry stakeholders continue to study advanced reactor technologies, safety frameworks, and international regulations before nuclear-powered merchant ships can become a practical reality.

The development highlights the shipping industry\'s ongoing efforts to identify alternative energy solutions as global environmental requirements continue to influence the future design and operation of commercial vessels.