US shipping and energy company Crowley has teamed with nuclear power company BWX Technologies (BWXT) to design a ship concept that has the potential to generate energy for defence and disaster needs by including a microreactor on board.

The ship would supply small-scale nuclear energy to shoreside locations, providing power to military bases, backup utility grids, and other situations where traditional electricity sources are not feasible.

The vessel concept combines Crowley’s logistics and marine capabilities with US-based BWXT’s nuclear expertise, aiming to support sustainable energy sources and the US Department of Energy’s nuclear energy technology goals.