Four European nuclear technology organisations have formed the Eagles Consortium to develop and commercialise the EAGLES-300 next-generation lead-cooled small modular reactor (SMR), according to World Nuclear News.

The project aims to deliver a first demonstration by 2035. The EAGLES-300 is a lead-cooled Generation IV small modular reactor with key features such as high power output, grid flexibility, modular design, and optimised fuel management using MOX nuclear fuel.

The consortium plans to leverage two test facilities for commercialisation: the LEANDREA technology demonstrator in Mol, Belgium, and the ALFRED project in Pitești, Romania.

The project aims to deliver fuel and materials testing by 2035, while upgrading the ALFRED project to serve as a stepping stone toward commercial deployment.

The consortium is adopting a stepwise approach to development, ensuring technical feasibility and economic viability at each stage.

The new agreement strengthens collaboration among consortium members and contributes to a more sustainable implementation of nuclear energy.