Iran and Russia have deepened their nuclear cooperation with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) and Rosatom for the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs).
The MoU, signed in Moscow by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and AEOI chief Mohammad Eslami during World Atomic Week, aims to promote sustainable development, energy security, and technological advancement in line with international obligations.
Under the agreement, contracts for SMR design and construction will be formalised, enabling Iran to expand technical expertise, develop nuclear technology industries, and strengthen electricity grid stability. Russia will play a defined role in delivering eight new nuclear power units, including ongoing work at Bushehr.
The initiative is expected to boost Iran’s nuclear capacity to 20 GWe by 2040, support industrial power demand, and foster joint research, education, and manufacturing partnerships.
