The U.S. Department of Transportation is taking a significant step toward advancing nuclear-powered commercial shipping, with Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) announcing a new initiative focused on the development of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) for the maritime sector.

As part of the initiative, MARAD has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking feedback from industry leaders, innovators and stakeholders on how SMR technology can be integrated into commercial shipping operations. The effort is intended to support the modernization of the U.S. maritime industry while strengthening domestic shipbuilding capabilities and long-term energy security.

According to MARAD, the agency is seeking input in several key areas, including vessel efficiency, affordability, national security, scalability, workforce development and regulatory readiness.

Officials said SMRs could provide commercial vessels with a reliable, high-output energy source capable of extending range and improving operational performance while reducing dependence on conventional marine fuels. The technology is also expected to lower long-term maintenance and fuel costs.

The initiative also aims to reinforce domestic supply chains and support broader national defense objectives by advancing U.S. energy independence and maritime capabilities.

In addition to vessel applications, MARAD is exploring how SMR production and integration could be incorporated into U.S. shipyards, creating new workforce opportunities, credentialing standards and manufacturing capacity within the domestic maritime industry.

Regulatory preparedness is another major focus of the effort. MARAD said the RFI seeks recommendations on liability structures, insurance requirements, inspection protocols and port-access frameworks needed to support the future deployment of nuclear-powered commercial vessels.