**Jiangnan Shipyard Unveils Thorium Reactor Cargo Ship Concept**
China’s Jiangnan Shipyard unveiled the design of a nuclear-powered cargo ship equipped with a thorium-based molten salt reactor in Beijing on 5 Nov 2025. The announcement marks the first public disclosure of key technical specifications for the 14,000-teu vessel under development.
The ship’s reactor is rated at 200 MW thermal output, matching power levels used in advanced nuclear submarines. Unlike conventional reactors, it relies on thorium fuel and requires no water for cooling, allowing a more compact, quieter installation. The concept aims to demonstrate enhanced safety and extended endurance compared with uranium-based systems.
Jiangnan Shipyard said further engineering work and sea trials are planned as it advances the project toward eventual construction and certification.