Naval Nuclear Laboratory

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is a U.S. Department of Energy entity dedicated to advancing naval nuclear propulsion technology. It ensures the safety and reliability of the U.S. Navy's nuclear reactors and trains the personnel who operate them.

Established in 1946, NNL comprises several key facilities.

Key Facilities

• Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory: Located in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, Bettis focuses on the design and engineering support for nuclear propulsion systems, including those for the Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and Seawolf-class submarines.
• Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory: Situated in Niskayuna, New York, Knolls leads design efforts for the Virginia-class fast attack submarines and the upcoming Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines.
• Kenneth A. Kesselring Site: Located in West Milton, New York, this site provides support for the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, including training and research activities.
• Naval Reactors Facility: Based in Idaho, this facility plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of naval nuclear reactors.
• Naval Power Training Unit-Charleston: A site offering training for personnel operating nuclear-powered vessels.

Mission Areas

• Propulsion Plant Design: Developing advanced nuclear propulsion systems for submarines and aircraft carriers to ensure superior performance and reliability.
• Technology Development: Innovating and leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and test facilities to enhance capabilities, support the existing fleet, and meet performance and cost requirements for future ships.
• Spent Fuel Processing: Managing transportation and processing of spent nuclear fuel for safe storage after removal from the fleet.
• Fleet Support: Providing design improvements and engineering support to maintain the operational readiness of the nuclear-powered fleet.
• Navy Training: Qualifying personnel to operate nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines, and developing advanced simulators and training tools.

Company Size and Locations

With nearly 8,000 employees across primary locations in Pennsylvania, New York, South Carolina, and Idaho, NNL also maintains a presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations worldwide.

One of its major locations is Albany, NY, USA.

Management and Operation

NNL is managed and operated by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation.