The third cycle of tests of MOX fuel in the MIR research reactor is to begin following the successful completion of the second phase of the programme which aims to substantiate the safety of MOX fuel for use in VVER-type reactors.

The SMART tokamak - an experimental fusion device designed, built and operated by the Plasma Science and Fusion Technology Laboratory of the University of Seville, Spain - has generated its first plasma.

The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute has transferred the technology behind Armstrong, its dual-arm robot which can move up to 200 kilograms, to robot company Victex, which aims to develop models targeting the nuclear decommissioning market.

Specialists at JSC NIIEFA and MISIS have developed a composite of tungsten and copper, using additive technologies, for the plasma-facing elements of the tokamak divertor of Russia's prototype TRT tokamak nuclear fusion reactor.

The UK Atomic Energy Authority's LIBRTI programme has announced a series of significant steps to advance fusion energy development. In addition to ordering a neutron source, it has also announced funding for 12 small-scale tritium breeding and digital simulation experiments.

The Advanced Nuclear Research Centre at the University of Strathclyde has signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation with the Candu Owners Group and the University Network of Excellence in Nuclear Engineering.

France's EDF, its Italian subsidiary Edison and Italy's nuclear research organisation ENEA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the industrial applications of small modular reactors.

A project to develop the case for scaling-up the harvesting of lead-212 from reprocessed uranium for use in treating cancer has been selected for funding by UK Research and Innovation.

The UK government has announced a GBP410 million (USD500 million) investment to accelerate development of fusion energy. The announcement came as five construction and engineering consortiums have been shortlisted to build the country's STEP prototype fusion plant.