United States to Host IAEA ATLAS Initiative Ministerial Launch

The United States will host the ministerial launch of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) "Atoms for Transport Licensing and Applications at Sea" (ATLAS) Initiative in Washington, D.C., on August 26-27, 2026. The event will bring together ministers, policymakers, and industry representatives to discuss topics related to the safe and reliable application of nuclear technology in the maritime domain.

The ATLAS Initiative aims to establish an international framework to harmonize legal and regulatory issues facing maritime nuclear energy applications and to support the deployment of related civilian nuclear technologies. Building on the IAEA's experience in nuclear safety, nuclear security, and safeguards, the Initiative emphasizes technology neutrality and places safety, security, and non-proliferation requirements as the foundation for advancing maritime nuclear applications.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright stated that hosting the ATLAS launch event will help drive energy innovation and promote the development of safe, reliable advanced energy technologies. He noted that the event will also engage the U.S. nuclear and maritime sectors in the exploration of advanced energy applications.

Prior to the ministerial launch, the United States will also host an "Industry Day" on August 25, 2026, providing a platform for U.S. nuclear and maritime companies to showcase relevant technologies. The event will focus on civilian maritime nuclear applications, advanced nuclear technologies, and future commercialization pathways.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stated that the global maritime sector is under pressure to maintain long-distance, high-speed operations while ensuring reliability and energy security. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) can offer high energy density and long operating cycles for maritime transport and offshore energy systems, reducing the need for frequent refueling.

Application areas of focus under the ATLAS Initiative include Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs) and civilian nuclear-powered vessels. These advanced nuclear technologies can be used in shipping and offshore energy systems, can also provide power to remote or coastal communities, and support industrial activities such as seawater desalination and oil and gas production.

The continued advancement of the Initiative will depend on international cooperation. Coordination among IAEA Member States, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), other international organizations, port authorities, regulators, and industry will serve as an important foundation for building regulatory confidence, expanding the scope of applications, and generating long-term impact for maritime nuclear energy applications.