Uk Atomic Energy Authority

The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority completed its fifth MAST Upgrade experimental campaign at Culham, producing more than 1,100 plasmas during 2025–2026 and achieving the machine’s highest plasma pressure without destabilization. Researchers demonstrated four stable high-performance operating regimes, advanced methods for suppressing damaging edge-localized modes, and a world-first technique using visible light to control plasma position in real time. Nitrogen injection and the Super-X divertor helped dissipate heat and reduce damage to machine components. The results are intended to inform the design and operation of future fusion facilities, including STEP and ITER. Further MAST Upgrade enhancements, including additional neutral beam injectors and an Electron Bernstein Wave heating system, are planned through 2027, followed by another experimental campaign in 2028.

UKAEA and UK Fusion Energy formalised their support for serving personnel, veterans and their families by signing the Armed Forces Covenant, reinforcing efforts to attract military talent into the growing fusion sector. The organisations highlighted the alignment between armed forces skills and fusion workforce needs, citing initiatives such as career events and the FOSTER programme. Representatives from UKAEA, UKFE, RAF Benson and SERFCA emphasised the value veterans bring to advancing the UK’s fusion ambitions and the mutual benefits created through the covenant commitment.