Russia Delivers Nuclear Fuel for Kudankulam’s Third Reactor During Putin’s India Visit
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India coincides with a key milestone for the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu, as Russia’s state-run Rosatom has delivered the first batch of nuclear fuel for the third reactor. The shipment, transported via a special flight by Rosatom’s Nuclear Fuel Division, consists of fuel assemblies produced at the Novosibirsk Chemical Concentrates Plant. This delivery is part of a 2024 contract covering fuel supplies for both the third and fourth VVER-1000 reactors throughout their operational lifespan.
The Kudankulam plant, which is being developed with six VVER-1000 reactors totaling 6,000 MW of installed capacity, has already connected its first two reactors to India’s power grid in 2013 and 2016. The remaining four reactors, including the third one, are still under construction. Seven flights from Russia are planned to complete the fuel supply for the reactor core, along with reserve fuel, ensuring uninterrupted operation once commissioned.
Rosatom emphasized the strong collaboration between Russian and Indian engineers, noting that joint efforts have improved the performance and efficiency of the first two reactors through advanced fuel technology and extended fuel cycles. The successful delivery of the third reactor’s fuel marks a significant step forward in the ongoing development of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant and highlights the deepening strategic partnership between India and Russia.
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