Norwegian shipbuilding company Vard has shown in a research project called NuProShip II that small Generation IV nuclear reactors in offshore vessels would be feasible with a concept design now ready.

Vard said that the project, financed by the Research Council of Norway, had demonstrated the technical feasibility of nuclear-powered dynamic positioning (DP) vessels using validated assumptions and supplier data. DP vessels use an automated computer system to maintain a precise position and heading, and are crucial for deepwater offshore operations such as drilling, diving and construction.