The contract covers the design and recapitalization of capabilities used to examine spent nuclear fuel cores. Those examinations allow scientists and engineers to compare actual fuel performance with predictions made during design and testing.
The work is intended to help the Navy assess fuel behavior and support continued fleet readiness. It also supports the safe and effective operation of U.S. naval nuclear propulsion systems.
“By modernizing these vital examination capabilities, Amentum is helping to enhance the Navy’s ability to evaluate, optimize and extend the performance of nuclear fuel cores far into the future,” said Mark Whitney, president of Amentum’s Energy & Environment business. He said Amentum’s nuclear expertise covers the full nuclear project lifecycle.
Whitney also said Amentum delivers “safe, innovative and reliable nuclear solutions worldwide.” He added that the company’s global nuclear capabilities support demanding programs, including work for the U.S. Navy.
The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program has operated for more than 75 years. It is jointly managed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of the Navy.
The program oversees the design, development and operational support of the Navy’s nuclear propulsion capabilities. Its role includes supporting the fleet’s endurance, stealth, responsiveness and warfighting capability.
The U.S. Navy operates the world’s largest nuclear-powered fleet, according to the company. That fleet includes 11 active aircraft carriers and more than 70 submarines.
The Idaho project focuses on infrastructure used to evaluate spent naval nuclear fuel after service. The resulting data helps engineers compare real-world fuel performance with earlier design and testing assumptions.
