Russia Advances Development of Nuclear-Powered Underwater Natural Gas Carriers

Mikhail Kovalchuk, Director of the National Research Center Kurchatov Institute and Chairman of the Scientific Expert Council of the Russian Federation Maritime Board, recently stated that nuclear-powered underwater natural gas carriers could help Russia secure energy exports via the Northern Sea Route.

Speaking at a joint meeting of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Transport, Kovalchuk reported on the project's progress, noting that the first phase of development for this type of gas carrier has been completed, with the second phase currently underway. Gazprom has allocated dedicated funding for the project.

Kovalchuk stated that the development of such vessels holds significant application prospects. He believes that nuclear-powered underwater natural gas carriers could serve the development of the Northern Sea Route and provide support for Russia in establishing an independently controlled export transportation corridor for hydrocarbons, with potential export destinations including Southeast Asia.

Previously, Kovalchuk had revealed that the Kurchatov Institute had signed a contract with Gazprom to jointly develop nuclear-powered underwater natural gas carriers. He noted that the vessel would essentially be a shuttle carrier capable of operating under the ice of the Northern Sea Route.