Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom has commenced the final assembly of the VVER-1200 reactor for the fourth power unit of Türkiye’s Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), a landmark milestone for both the Russian and Turkish nuclear industries.

The fabrication of the reactor’s control assembly was carried out at Rosatom’s Mechanical Engineering division, Atommash plant. According to Igor Kotov, head of Atommash, “Our products have powered hundreds of nuclear plants in Russia and around the globe, bringing warmth and illumination to millions. They have also driven the creation of nuclear icebreakers, opening up new frontiers.” Kotov added that upcoming projects include the launch of the world’s first Generation IV energy complex in Seversk and a series of floating nuclear power plants.

Sergei Butckikh, CEO of Akkuyu Nuclear JSC, highlighted the strategic importance of Russian expertise in Türkiye’s nuclear program. “Russian nuclear industry companies are trusted suppliers in Türkiye’s nuclear power plant construction. Their commitment ensures top-quality equipment that will be crucial for the long-term and stable operation of Akkuyu NPP power units,” he said.

The control assembly, described as a “nuclear nesting doll,” allows engineers to precisely position every component to a thousandth of a millimeter. Maxim Zhidkov, head of Atommash, explained that the reactor’s assembly will weigh around 600 tons and include over 100 components, ensuring operational reliability for at least six decades. Laser metrology will verify the accuracy of the installation before the reactor is loaded with nuclear fuel.

The Akkuyu project, located in Mersin province, represents Türkiye’s first nuclear power plant, featuring four Generation 3+ VVER-1200 reactors, each generating 1,200 megawatts. Once operational, the plant is expected to produce approximately 35 billion kilowatt-hours annually—enough to supply up to 10% of Türkiye’s electricity demand, or power a major city such as Istanbul.

Construction of Akkuyu runs concurrently with the four-unit El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt, also overseen by Rosatom, making both projects among the few large-scale nuclear builds globally proceeding simultaneously at a single location.

Atommash continues to manufacture reactors and steam generators for domestic and international projects, including units for Türkiye, Egypt, India, and Russia. The Akkuyu NPP is being built to meet the highest international nuclear safety standards, aligned with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the European Club of Operating Organizations (EUR). (ILKHA)