TerraPower, the US nuclear technology company founded by Bill Gates, has awarded the major manufacturing contracts for the first Natrium reactor enclosure system, calling the move a major milestone in establishing the advanced nuclear supply chain.

Washington-based TerraPower said the contracts advance the development and construction of the Natrium sodium-cooled fast reactor and represent a significant milestone in the deployment and commercialisation of the US’s first advanced reactor.

TerraPower said Spain-based nuclear equipment manufacturer Equipos Nucleares (Ensa) will produce the reactor head. South Korea’s Doosan Enerbility will supply the core barrel, guard vessel and internal supports for the Natrium reactor and HD Hyundai, also South Korea-based, will manufacture the reactor pressure vessel. Canada-based equipment manufacturer Marmen will build the rotating plug.