Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 25, Russia’s Rosatom and the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate in the field of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Iran. The agreement was formalized during a meeting in Moscow between Rosatom CEO Alexei Likhachev and AEOI President Mohammad Eslami.

According to the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, “this agreement was concluded to expand cooperation in the field of peaceful uses of atomic energy to promote sustainable development, energy security, and technological advancement, in accordance with the national laws and international obligations of the two countries.” The organisation noted that the MoU establishes a framework for drafting contracts on the design and construction of SMRs in Iran. It added: “These reactors will play an important role in the development of nuclear technical knowledge and technology and industries related to the manufacture of power plant equipment and instruments in the country.”

The cooperation is aimed at supporting the long-term use of nuclear technology for peaceful energy applications. The SMRs are expected to strengthen domestic capabilities and provide new opportunities for scientific and industrial development.

Rosatom confirmed that discussions also covered the progress of ongoing nuclear projects in Iran. At present, a Russian-designed VVER unit with a capacity of 915 MWe is operational at Bushehr, located on the Persian Gulf coast. In addition, two VVER-1000 reactors are currently under construction at the same site. These units represent a continuation of the long-term partnership between Rosatom and Iran in nuclear energy development.

The signing of the MoU took place alongside the World Atomic Week forum, held in Moscow from 25–28 September, where the Iranian delegation participated in a series of events. Rosatom described the meeting as having taken place “in an atmosphere of mutual trust, openness, and constructiveness,” highlighting the emphasis both sides placed on cooperation.

The initiative reflects a broader trend of using small modular reactor technology to diversify energy systems and enhance supply security. SMRs are seen as a potential solution for regions seeking flexible, safe, and efficient nuclear power generation. By aligning their expertise, Rosatom and the AEOI aim to support energy sector development through projects that combine advanced nuclear engineering with local industrial participation.

This new collaboration builds upon the existing nuclear partnership between Russia and Iran, particularly at the Bushehr plant. Once the planned SMRs and the additional VVER units are operational, Iran is expected to expand its nuclear capacity significantly, contributing to the country’s long-term strategy for sustainable and secure electricity generation.