Merchant marine nuclear-powered vessels Original Research Article

The history of civil nuclear-powered vessels development in Russia is highlighted. Advantages of nuclear propulsion for icebreakers operating in the Arctic are discussed. The operation of nuclear-powered icebreakers and the nuclear lighters-aboard ship in the Arctic has changed the situation on the Northern Sea Way. The all year round navigation there now is a reality. The reliability, safety and ecological cleanness of nuclear-powered vessels are discussed. The necessity of internationally recognized standards, rules and codes for safe operation of nuclear-powered trade vessels is underlined.