NANO Nuclear, a UK-based organisation specialising in nuclear power technology, has been awarded a £2.5 million contract by the Royal Air Force (RAF) as part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I programme.
The SBIR programme is designed to support innovation in defence and aerospace, providing funding to small businesses and start-ups to develop new technologies that can be used by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The contract with NANO Nuclear aims to develop a new nuclear power source for use in RAF applications, according to a statement from the MoD. The organisation will work closely with the RAF to design and develop a new nuclear reactor that can provide a reliable and efficient power source for various RAF systems.
The development of a new nuclear power source is expected to be a key component in the RAF's efforts to reduce its reliance on traditional fossil fuels and improve its sustainability. The project is also expected to create new job opportunities and stimulate innovation in the UK's defence and aerospace sector.
The MoD has stated that the contract is a significant step forward for the RAF's efforts to adopt more sustainable and efficient technologies. The RAF is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and improving its overall sustainability.