Seoul: Samsung Heavy Industries Co., a major South Korean shipbuilder, announced its partnership with U.S. engineering firm Sargent and Lundy (SandL) to jointly develop floating small modular reactors (FSMRs) through a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

According to Yonhap News Agency, the agreement focuses on creating a standardized FSMR platform capable of accommodating various reactor technologies instead of a single type. This approach aims to offer global customers greater flexibility in selecting reactor technologies by integrating different types of reactors.

The collaboration is set to leverage Samsung Heavy's engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) capabilities for offshore plants along with SandL's nuclear design and engineering expertise. This strategic partnership is anticipated to enhance Samsung Heavy's presence in the U.S. market.

FSMRs represent a next-generation floating nuclear power platform, which generates electricity using a small modular reactor (SMR) installed on a floating structure.