Coast Guard establishes Maritime Nuclear Policy Division

The U.S. Coast Guard on Wednesday announced it has established a Maritime Nuclear Policy Division to develop and implement policies governing the safe and secure integration of nuclear technology into the marine transportation system.

The new division was created within the Office of Design and Engineering Standards and supports Coast Guard Force Design 2028 and priorities from the Trump administration to revitalize American maritime industries and advance emerging technologies, the Coast Guard said in a statement.

The Maritime Nuclear Policy Division will serve as the Coast Guard’s central point of contact for maritime nuclear policy and as a liaison with industry and interagency partners to ensure continued leadership in the United States' network of waterways, ports, vessels, and intermodal connections that move people and goods.

The division will develop domestic and international policy in coordination with federal and international partners and will engage with nuclear industry leaders, academia, and national laboratories to remain informed of advancements in reactor technology and maritime applications. Its establishment is intended to support the responsible development of advanced nuclear technologies while strengthening national security and economic prosperity, according to the Coast Guard.

Nuclear propulsion and other advanced reactor technologies have been gaining increased attention across the U.S. maritime industry.

“The Coast Guard must keep pace with maritime industry advancements," said Rear Adm. Wayne R. Arguin, assistant commandant for prevention policy. "The creation of the Maritime Nuclear Policy Division ensures the Coast Guard is fully engaged with stakeholders so we can safely integrate maritime nuclear technology, while also maintaining a security posture through coordination with other agencies. Staying aligned with industry and federal agencies is critical to promote and safeguard the maritime sector.”