UK Nuclear SMR takes a significant step forward as an Amentum-led joint venture secures a $406 million engineering contract for the United Kingdom’s first small modular reactors. The award signals strong government commitment to nuclear expansion. Moreover, it accelerates deployment of low-carbon baseload power. Consequently, the project strengthens energy security while advancing industrial growth across the UK.

UK Nuclear SMR engineering deal drives project momentum

Great British Energy – Nuclear awarded the $406 million (£300 million) contract to a joint venture between Amentum and Cavendish Nuclear. The joint venture, operating as Litmus Nuclear, will act as the owner’s engineer for the UK Nuclear Small Modular Reactors (SMR) program.

It will provide independent assurance across engineering design, safety systems, and construction delivery phases. Furthermore, the contract spans up to 14 years, ensuring continuity throughout development and commissioning.

The scope includes technical oversight, regulatory alignment, and quality verification across all project stages. Additionally, the program will deploy Rolls-Royce SMR technology at the Wylfa site in North Wales. Consequently, stakeholders expect this development to anchor the UK’s first fleet of modular nuclear reactors.

UK Nuclear SMR supports clean energy transition

The UK Nuclear SMR initiative directly supports national net-zero targets and rising electricity demand. Notably, small modular reactors offer standardized, factory-built components that improve cost predictability. Therefore, developers can reduce construction risks while accelerating project timelines.

In addition, Amentum brings extensive nuclear delivery experience from projects such as Hinkley Point C. The company will integrate engineering, procurement, and construction oversight within a unified delivery framework.

Meanwhile, Cavendish Nuclear contributes expertise in nuclear safety, compliance, and technical assurance. As a result, the joint venture establishes a strong foundation for reliable SMR deployment. Moreover, industry stakeholders welcomed the award, highlighting its role in strengthening domestic supply chains.

Project significance and delivery outlook

The Wylfa development represents a cornerstone in the UK Nuclear SMR rollout strategy. It will deliver stable, low-carbon electricity while reducing reliance on fossil fuel generation. Additionally, the project is expected to create thousands of skilled jobs across engineering sectors. The modular construction approach allows parallel fabrication and site preparation activities.  Therefore, overall delivery timelines will improve compared to traditional nuclear plants.

Furthermore, the owner’s engineer role ensures strict compliance with safety and performance standards. This oversight enhances project transparency while supporting regulatory approvals. Looking ahead, successful delivery at Wylfa could unlock wider SMR deployment across Europe.

This contract places the Amentum-led joint venture at the forefront of the UK Nuclear SMR rollout, while reinforcing the country’s position in advanced nuclear development.

Similarly, the UK Nuclear SMR program builds on earlier nuclear developments across the country. The Wylfa nuclear power construction plant project highlights the scale and complexity of conventional nuclear builds, reinforcing the advantages of the more flexible UK Nuclear SMR approach.

Project Fact Sheet

Project Name: UK Nuclear SMR Program – Wylfa

Location: Wylfa, North Wales, United Kingdom

Contract Value: $406 million (£300 million)

Contract Duration: Up to 14 years

Client/Owner: Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N)

Technology Provider: Rolls-Royce SMR

Project Type: Nuclear energy infrastructure (Small Modular Reactors)

Scope of Work:

• Owner’s engineer services
• Engineering design assurance
• Nuclear safety and compliance verification
• Construction oversight and coordination
• Commissioning and operational readiness support

Development Model:

• Modular reactor fabrication
• Centralized manufacturing approach
• Phased site deployment

Key Objectives:

• Deliver first UK Nuclear SMR units
• Support net-zero emissions targets
• Enhance national energy security
• Strengthen UK nuclear supply chain

Project Team

Owner/Client: Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N)

Owner’s Engineer (Joint Venture):

• Amentum (Lead Partner)
• Cavendish Nuclear

Technology Provider: Rolls-Royce SMR

Key Responsibilities:

• Amentum: Program delivery, engineering integration, construction management
• Cavendish Nuclear: Nuclear safety, licensing, regulatory compliance

Stakeholders and Partners:

• UK nuclear regulatory authorities
• Engineering and construction contractors
• Modular manufacturing suppliers
• Energy policy and infrastructure agencies