US-UK tech deal cautiously restarts with focus on nuclear projects

The US and UK have revived a stalled technology collaboration agreement, refocusing on nuclear energy, AI, and quantum computing after trade disputes paused negotiations in 2025. The partnership prioritizes atomic energy projects, including next-gen nuclear reactors and fusion research, alongside quantum advancements like error-corrected qubits and post-quantum cryptography standards. Both nations aim to counter China’s dominance in quantum and nuclear sectors by pooling research funding, supply chains, and regulatory frameworks under the renewed deal. AI integration in nuclear safety and quantum algorithm development for energy optimization are key pillars, with joint labs planned at Oak Ridge (US) and Harwell (UK). The agreement excludes semiconductor cooperation—a notable omission—amid ongoing tensions over export controls, but includes civil-military dual-use quantum sensing for defense applications.