The United Kingdom and the United States have launched a new partnership aimed at developing secure transport packaging for high-assay low-enriched uranium, known as HALEU, marking a significant step in strengthening transatlantic cooperation on advanced nuclear energy.

The initiative is designed to ensure the safe and reliable movement of this specialist fuel, which is critical for the deployment of next-generation nuclear reactors.

Under the partnership, UK and US nuclear agencies and industry partners will collaborate on the design, testing and certification of transport packages capable of meeting stringent safety, security and regulatory standards.

Officials said the effort addresses a key bottleneck in the emerging advanced reactor supply chain, as HALEU requires specialised handling and transport infrastructure that is not yet widely available.

HALEU, enriched to levels higher than conventional nuclear fuel but well below weapons-grade material, is seen as essential for many advanced reactor designs, including small modular reactors and other innovative systems intended to deliver low-carbon, reliable power.

Both governments have identified advanced nuclear technology as central to energy security, emissions reduction and long-term industrial strategy.

The partnership builds on broader UK-US cooperation in civil nuclear energy, including research, fuel cycle development and regulatory alignment.

By jointly developing transport solutions, the two countries aim to reduce reliance on limited global suppliers and accelerate the commercial rollout of advanced reactors in both markets.

Officials emphasised that the collaboration also reinforces shared commitments to nuclear safety, non-proliferation and responsible stewardship of nuclear materials.

Work on the HALEU transport packages is expected to progress over the coming months, with outcomes intended to support early advanced reactor projects and future international deployment.