More efficient type of nuclear fuel will power many of the next generation of advanced reactors
Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) and nuclear technology company Westinghouse have signed a new agreement to work together on the development of Pegasus – NTS’s revolutionary transport package designed to safely move the next generation of nuclear fuel.
The signing took place at the British Embassy in Washington as part of an event celebrating the UK and US commitment to advancing nuclear energy generation.
NTS is part of the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), a public body responsible for ensuring the cleanup of the UK’s nuclear legacy.
NTS said Pegasus is designed as a transport package for high assay low-enriched uranium (Haleu), a more efficient type of nuclear fuel that will power many of the next generation of advanced reactors.
These reactors are key to delivering low-carbon, homegrown energy and powering emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
According to NTS, the UK-US agreement reinforces secure, reliable energy supply in both countries. It formalises the sharing of technical expertise, safety protocols, and design insights between NTS and Westinghouse, accelerating development of Pegasus for deployment. It also strengthens collaboration on engineering, regulatory compliance, and fuel handling standards.
NTS-co-chief executive officer Ben Whittard said the growth of AI and the need for reliable, ultra-low carbon energy “demonstrates the importance of nuclear power in our future”.
In 2024, the UK government awarded NTS £10.5m (€12.1m, $14.2m) to lead the development of the UK’s transport capability for Haleu. As part of the NDA, NTS benefits from close links to government and access to some of the UK’s strongest nuclear expertise.
Sophie Lemaire, interim co-president of Westinghouse Nuclear Fuel, said the agreement is an important step in making Halaue available in the US and UK.
The UK’s minister for nuclear Lord Vallance said: “Developing our own capability to make and transport advanced nuclear fuel is critical to shoring up our position as a nuclear world leader.
“Not only does this improve our energy security at home and reduce our reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, it provides export opportunities to grow our economy and ensure our allies can build resilient supply chains.”
