China’s Floating Nuclear Reactors Raise Concerns for US and Regional Security
China’s Plans for Floating Nuclear Reactors Raise Concerns in the US
By: ASIATODAY.ID correspondent
WASHINGTON, D.C. – China’s recent announcement regarding its plans to deploy floating nuclear reactors has raised significant concerns in the United States. According to a report by the Washington Post, US officials believe that China’s intention to use these floating reactors to power military facilities could pose a threat to regional security.
After more than a decade of research and development, China is reportedly nearing the construction of its first floating nuclear power plant. Beijing has stated that the facility could supply electricity and heat to remote areas, islands, and offshore oil and gas platforms. However, US officials fear that China will utilize these floating reactors to power its military bases on artificial islands in the South China Sea.
Admiral John Aquilino, who leads US Indo-Pacific Command, expressed his concerns, stating that China’s use of floating nuclear power plants could have far-reaching impacts on the entire Asia-Pacific region. The US views this move as potentially destabilizing and a threat to the security of neighboring nations.
While China is still several years away from deploying these floating nuclear reactors, the US has emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue. A senior State Department official warned that the closer China gets to deploying these reactors, the more likely they are to be used for purposes contrary to US national security interests.
In addition to the security implications, US officials have also raised questions about the implementation of existing nuclear safety and security frameworks in the region. The disputed territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea, particularly between China and the Philippines, add another layer of complexity to the situation.
China’s development of floating nuclear power plants dates back to 2010, with ambitions to create a network of these facilities around its artificial islands in the South China Sea. The Global Times previously described these floating reactors as essentially serving as nuclear-powered aircraft carriers equipped with combat aircraft and missile systems.
However, concerns over the vulnerability of floating nuclear reactors to potential attacks have prompted China to reassess its plans. Last year, Beijing reportedly halted construction of the floating nuclear reactor due to fears that it could be targeted in a similar manner to the Nord Stream pipelines in Europe.
The Nord Stream pipelines, which were targeted by underwater explosions in 2022, serve as a cautionary tale for the potential risks associated with critical infrastructure. Russia currently operates the Akademik Lomonosov, the world’s only floating nuclear power plant, which became operational in 2019.
The Akademik Lomonosov features two reactors capable of generating electricity and heat energy, with stringent safety standards in place. Despite its operational capabilities, the vessel’s vulnerability to external threats remains a pressing concern.
As tensions continue to simmer in the South China Sea, the prospect of China deploying floating nuclear reactors adds a new dimension to the complex geopolitical landscape. The US and its allies will need to closely monitor China’s actions and assess the potential implications for regional security.